NYSUT's One Voice United rally showed the power of parents, community and educators coming together to fight for the future of public education. Now an AFT poll makes it clear that parents across the nation, like those in New York State, see public education as an essential force.
The American Federation of Teachers poll, released today in conjunction with AFT TEACH, found parents overwhelmingly believe public schools are the single most important institution for the future of their community and the nation. Seventy-seven percent of parents choose strong neighborhood public schools over expanding choice, charters and vouchers, the poll found - support that cuts across political and economic lines.
As NYSUT President Dick Iannuzzi has said repeatedly, parents also understand first hand that budget cuts harm their children's future. The AFT poll found that more than two-thirds of parents believe public education is hurt by teacher and staff layoffs; increased class sizes; school closings; high turnover rates; and cutbacks in art, music, libraries and physical education. Parents surveyed nationally support the concept of Common Core Learning Standards while a majority believes there is an over-emphasis on testing.
For more information, visit aft.org.