May 9, 2016
Dear NYSUT Member,
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Acting at 4 a.m. Thursday, Michigan House Republicans forced through bills that would impose severe anti-student, anti-teacher practices in Detroit public schools while cutting off resources and support. In contrast, the Michigan Senate has drafted compromise school legislation that — while not perfect — reflects the recommendations of the Detroit community.
Alarmingly, the Michigan Senate may instead take up the anti-student, anti-teacher bills at any minute. Our sisters and brothers in Michigan, supported by like-minded people in the greater community, are pulling out all the stops to derail this devastating attempt to privatize Detroit schools.
We can help make this a national movement in support of the students and educators in Detroit.
Here’s what you can do:
- Sign and share AFT’s petition urging Michigan Gov. Snyder to stick with the compromise bills supported by the community and Michigan educators.
- Turn up the heat on social media, using #ForDetroitKids. Loop in teacher and paraprofessional locals using the handles @PAR227 and @DFT231. Make your own sign supporting Detroit kids, educators, parents and schools. Share your sign in a selfie or group shot on Facebook and Twitter.
- Use and share NYSUT’s messages of support.
- For minute-by-minute updates, follow AFT President Randi Weingarten at @rweingarten and @AFTunion.
The Flint water crisis has rightly become a national issue. The failure to keep Detroit schools repaired and safe has become a national issue. Fighting for a fully funded and healthy Detroit public school system can be an urgent national issue, too — with our help.
Thank you — your swift action is essential now.
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NYSUT President Karen Magee