It seems that nowadays it can be rather difficult to keep up with current news. There have been so many protests as well as walkouts. Whether it be protesting in the name of gun control, women’s rights, the LGBTQ community, or for another social cause, people are speaking their minds freely.
One of the events that you ought to know about is the Red for Ed movement. On Wednesday April 11, many Arizona teachers gathered outside different schools where they were employed. The teachers wore red shirts with signs in tow demanding for higher salaries as well as better funding for their schools.
The Red for Ed movement is nothing new and has been a trending topic across the country. The need for teachers is very high in Arizona as seen through the large class sizes, need for teachers within schools, as well as the many vacancies that desperately need to be filled. Many individuals do not want to teach in Arizona not only due to the low pay but also the lack of benefits as well. In addition, teachers in Arizona are also not given the proper funds in order to run their classroom, conduct fun and engaging class activities and projects, or to make their room a warm as well as inviting space to learn.
Many teachers decided to stand outside of different schools discussing their passion for teaching as well as their students. They discussed the need for more funds as well as benefits. Many parents as well as students stood next to their beloved teachers. As the class day was about to begin, the teachers, parents and students began to make their way into the schools.
So many individuals have differing opinions when it comes to the many protests that have been occurring. The Red for Ed movement is no exception. Some believe and view the teachers protesting and participating in this walk-in as individuals who are just complaining. Others state that what teachers are proposing is too much and that they have unrealistic expectations.
Personally, I come from a family with many teachers. These individuals are so passionate about the work they are doing and they genuinely love their students. I have also had numerous teachers who have changed my life. I have had teachers believe in me when I did not believe in myself, instill confidence and gratitude within me, and were right alongside me during difficult times. Teachers are so important and so necessary in our lives. Along with the desperate need for funding as well as teachers, something must be done in order to pour into our children’s educational journey.
What do you think about the Red for Ed movement? You will wear Red of Ed?