People will be taking their hopes and frustrations about public education to the streets, rallying against reform efforts that include any kind of privatization.
“Free, public education is the cornerstone of a democracy,” reads the e-flyer. “Public education is under siege by those seeking to privatize it for a profit. Together, we will call for a more equitable system of public education for all and ensure literacy as a basic civil right.”
The Defend Public Education Rally will take place Wednesday, April 30, starting at 6:00 PM at the Old Courthouse downtown. It will feature Thunderheart, a group of traditional Native American drummers, and speakers, including:
- Rebecca Rogers, Literacy for Social Justice Teacher Research Group, Acting for a Better Community Committee, Professor of Education, UMSL
- Ora Lewis-Clark, YMCA Literacy Programs, Advocate for Adult Literacy Education
- Donna Jones, Parent, member of the Elected School Board, St. Louis Public Schools
- Chad Beffa, SLPS parent, public school advocate, and candidate for State Rep (67th District)
- Byron Clemens, Regional Vice President, AFT Missouri
- Jackie Taylor, Literacy President Group
- Chuc Smith, Instead of War and Retired SLPS Math Teacher
- Cynthia Peters, World Education and The Change Agent
