Lamorindans Rally for Public Education

The “Wake Up, California” rally attracted a crowd of more than 100 parents, students, administrators and teachers Tuesday morning. The crowd was gathered as part of a statewide effort to show support for funding of local public schools. 

The rally was organized by Lafayette for Education, a nonprofit organization dedicated to revenue support of the Lafayette schools as well as sharing information about education issues in the state, in conjunction with Educate Our State. Superintendents from Orinda, Moraga, Lafayette and Acalanes Union high school districts were present. Don Tatzin, Lafayette council member, and Teresa Gerringer, of the Lafayette school board, also lent their support.

Assemblywoman Joan Buchanan, was at the rally from Sacramento and urged the community to continue to advocate for funding because it is critical at this stage of the budget process. She reminded the rally gathering that in 2007, when education funding seemed safe, the Legislature removed education funding that following August. An excerpt of her speech is available in pictures and video.

Watch an excerpt of Ryan K., a sixth-grade student at Stanley Middle School, speaking about appreciation of music, something he had walked away from and then rediscovered thanks to fourth-grade music programs.

The rally included a speech by Ari Z., student body president at Springhill Elementary School. She said, “We are the future, the new generation. People say to just wait, we can take music or art classes later, but when can we start?" 

The rally closed with local students speaking about their favorite part of school. Students of local schools lined up to express their support of art, math, physical education and music programs as well as teachers. Many of these programs are funded by private donations in the Lamorinda districts.

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