DCSD Community Takes a Stand

Estimated Read Time: 2 minutes

"Every child deserves a champion: an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connections and insists they become the best they can possibly be." ~Rita Pierson, Educator

On Thursday, February 3, 2022, hundreds of teachers showed what it means to be such a champion for DCSD students. More than 1,500 teachers called out of work in an effort to show the community their concerns over recent actions taken by the majority board members. They took a stand to force the new majority board to recognize their experience and expertise as educators for our children. They took a stand to tell the majority Directors that they do not want to return to the Reform years and want ethical, transparent leadership. They took a stand to show they know what is best for our kids in education. And the community listened.

Between 1,500 and 2,000 teachers, staff, parents, students and community members gathered in front of the Wilcox building around 1 p.m. and stayed for several hours.They stood shoulder to shoulder in solidarity with one another and for Corey Wise, demanding to be heard and respected.

As Ian Silverii, from the Denver Post, stated: "These are the underpaid, overworked, passionate professionals who get up and go to work every day in a district whose new leadership refuses to respect the concerns for their health in the midst of a deadly global pandemic and schemes in back rooms to fire a widely respected and dedicated school superintendent."

Former DCSD student, Kaitlin Ochs, recently shared the impact and influence teachers have had on her and so many others:

It was an afternoon filled with unity and hope.Teachers saw their community come together and stand alongside them. They were and are, true champions.