By The Keystone Newspaper By Bethany McDonald
On Tuesday March 4, APSCUF-KU will take part in “Protect Our Kids Day of Action” by hosting a letter-writing campaign in the McFarland Student Union from 10 a.m to 3 p.m. The purpose of this day of action is to provide KU with an opportunity to advocate for the future protection of public education in Pennsylvania.
The event will provide students the resources to write letters to Pennsylvania federal legislators and senators, urging them to oppose the elimination of The Department of Education. Materials and guidance will be provided to assist students in writing.
“Our goal is to make sure they hear directly from those of us who understand the critical role that public education plays in Pennsylvania, and the country as a whole,” Associate Professor of Physics and President of APSCUF-KU, Paul V. Quinn Sr. said.
In addition to the letter writing, faculty and students are encouraged to participate in the “Red for Ed” campaign by wearing red on March 4. Wearing red is a strong symbol of solidarity, helping to raise awareness and demonstrate a collective commitment to protecting public education.
Quinn explained that the Department of Education plays a vital role in ensuring high standards for teacher preparation, maintaining accountability in K-12 schools and providing crucial funding and support for public education at all levels.
“Eliminating it would weaken these essential functions, putting students, educators, and communities at risk,” Quinn said.
To participate in this event, stop by the APSCUF-KU table in the MSU to write a letter and show support by wearing red on March 4.
“Every letter and voice matter in this fight,” Quinn said. The Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculty (APSCUF) is the union that represents faculty and coaches at KU and across the entire State System. APSCUF-KU acts as the local representative of APSCUF at KU.