WEA members in different parts of the state often meet after school to discuss what’s happening in Olympia, how it affects them and how they can get involved and make a difference. Recently, WEA members in the Sammamish UniServ Council met for “pizza and politics” and share their thoughts about the Legislature.
- “I want legislators to understand my students are counting on them to provide them with a quality education. The impact I am able to make is directly related to the support you give me. Class size matters. Professional compensation matters. Respect for educators matters.” ~ Nate Ziemkowski, Snoqualmie Elementary, second grade
- “I want legislators to know teachers and certificated support personnel are the experts in education. When you want to know what works in education, please ask us and listen to us!” ~ Donna Burns, Issaquah Valley Elementary, Grant Elementary & PCMS, occupational therapist
- “In the last decade due to rising healthcare costs — I, as well as many teachers in my building, are taking home considerably less money in the face of our rising costs of living. For years I’ve had huge class sizes — now with class sizes of about 25 — I can actually teach! The teacher shortage is upon us. Young people aren’t willing to be treated poorly and paid poorly. We are having problems getting substitutes for similar reasons.” ~ Ann Heideman, Mt. Si High School, art teacher