Hard Won, Not Done

Michigan educators lived through a dark time between 2011 and 2019. Under Republican Gov. Rick Snyder and his allies, our neighborhood schools and the students they serve suffered.

Politicians cut $1 billion from public schools, shifted healthcare costs onto educators, weakened the pension system, stripped educators of the right to negotiate over key workplace decisions, and weaponized standardized tests in evaluations. Political attacks on public schools drove a statewide educator shortage and led to fewer supports for students.

After voters ousted anti-education politicians, educators successfully clawed back some of what was lost, but the work continues. Every gain we have made since 2019 can be undone by who is elected this fall. That’s why getting involved and voting in 2026 is so critical to the future of public education.

By uplifting educator voices and remembering the harm inflicted, we can elect leaders who align with our values.

Click here or scan the QR code below to tell us your story!

Submit a selfie video or written testimonial answering one/both of the following questions:

What specific impact did budget cuts and political attacks in the 2010s have on you and/or your students?

What have you and your students gained back during the last eight years?