There is a lot of policy being made at the federal, state, and local levels that is impacting public education around the country, and especially right here in Prince George's County.  With the recent passage of the federal Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), there will be impacts on everything from student achievement levels to teacher and principal evaluations and accountability measures for all.  Locally, we are seeing the need to protect educator rights to due process and fairness.  All of these decisions will be made by those we elect from the President of the United States to the local school board races.  Virtually every decision made in public education affecting you, i.e. salary, curriculum, class size, health benefits, certification requirements, books, supplies, retirement benefits, etc., is made by elected officials.

 

Every profession involves itself in politics to protect its interests.  Doctors have the American Medical association to lobby for their interests.  Lawyers have the American Bar Association which serves a similar function.  Businesses have the chamber of Commerce organizations, which promote candidates who support their business interests.  And, since the interests of others may run counter to those of us in public education, it is imperative that we fully participate in that process for the sake of our students, as well as our professional interests as educators.

 

This is why your participation in this year's election is critical!! PGCEA wants to ensure that those who get elected to public office understand the needs of educators, our students and communities.  To make this happen, we need your help in getting pro-public education candidates endorsed by PGCEA elected.  And here's how you can help.

 

On the attached survey is a schedule of the dates and times we plan to engage voters at the polls during early voting and on election day.  We urge you to join your colleagues and friends in supporting our candidates by volunteering help us during this critical period.  A lot is at stake!!  If you can, please complete the survey attached to let us know when you will be available to come out and join us in representing your profession, your students and your community by volunteering with us at an election poll.