Colorado Springs Teachers’ Strike Draws Criticism for Political Motivation
Source: CPR News
Teachers in Colorado Springs School District 11 walked out for a one-day strike this week, but district leaders say the action had little to do with working conditions – and everything to do with politics.
The strike came just two days before general election ballots were mailed to city voters. According to district officials, teachers planned to spend the afternoon canvassing for school board candidates supported by their union, the Colorado Springs Education Association (CSEA), affiliated with the Colorado Education Association (CEA) and the National Education Association (NEA).
District leaders have criticized the timing and purpose of the strike, calling it a “political stunt.” School Board member Jill Haffley questioned the motives behind the union’s decision to walk out:
“(The strike) can’t be about pay because they got a 10 percent raise. It can’t be about benefits because they have the best benefits in the city. It can’t be about planning time, duty-free lunches, those sorts of things, because we guaranteed those in the new employee handbook.”
The district emphasized that it has already addressed teacher concerns and continues to prioritize both staff and students. A statement from the board noted that the new employee handbook “preserves and improves upon the teacher’s rights and benefits.” It also reaffirmed the district’s commitment to collaboration through committees, staff surveys, and a newly formed employee engagement group.
“As an elected leadership body, we are ultimately accountable to our families and taxpayers,” the release stated. “Our commitment remains steadfast — supporting every teacher in the delivery of high-quality instruction and ensuring excellent learning opportunities for our students in safe learning environments.”
While union officials insist their actions represent solidarity, critics argue that disrupting schools for political gain harms students and families who depend on educational stability.
Teachers should also be aware that union members can face fines for refusing to join a strike if they remain in the union. However, thanks to the Janus v. AFSCME Supreme Court ruling, public school employees have the legal right to resign from union membership and stop paying dues at any time. Exercising their Janus rights frees educators from union-imposed mandates, including participation in politically driven strikes.
Those who choose to stay in the classroom and keep students first are fully within their rights — and deserve respect for doing so.
For more information on your rights as an employee regarding unions, visit Know Your Rights.
