EVANSVILLE, Ind. – Teachers at Central High School in Evansville participated in a nationwide “walk-in” protest on Wednesday, responding to recent changes within the U.S. Department of Education that have sparked widespread concern.
The protest, which was part of a broader movement organized by the National Education Association, was a direct reaction to the recent layoff of around 1,300 Department of Education employees. These layoffs have effectively cut nearly half of the department’s workforce, prompting educators across the country to speak out against what they view as harmful budget cuts to public education.
At Central High School, teachers arrived before school hours to show solidarity with the nationwide movement, gathering to voice their frustrations and raise awareness about the looming consequences of these cuts.
“We need your support. We need every voice in this matter, whether it be a parent, a guardian, a student, or most importantly, us,” said one of the rally speakers. Teachers and staff emphasized that the cuts would result in larger class sizes, fewer resources, and the elimination of crucial educational programs.
One of the primary concerns expressed by educators was the potential impact on grants for low-income and special needs students, with more than 60% of public and charter schools qualifying for such grants based on student poverty rates.
“We believe in the promise and protection of public education. Every one of us believes every child deserves a chance to learn, grow, and succeed. That’s why we believe supporting public education is an investment in our community’s future,” another rally speaker stated.
This sentiment was echoed by educators nationwide, from Los Angeles to New York, where teachers and education advocates took to the streets to demand action. The core issue uniting these protests is a perceived lack of investment in public education, as well as growing concerns about reduced federal oversight, particularly at the Office of Civil Rights and the Institute of Education Sciences.
“Public education is not just a school issue; it’s a community issue. When we stand up for our public schools, we stand up for our students, our parents, our teachers, our administrators, and even our local businesses that depend on our future workforce,” said another Central High School rally speaker.
The walk-ins and protests are a sign of the growing unrest among educators who fear that the cuts will undermine the quality of education and disproportionately affect the most vulnerable students. Teachers continue to call on lawmakers to prioritize education and ensure that public schools receive the resources they need to thrive.
