As soon as this week, legislation that could give Boston the long-term funding increase it needs could be released from the State House. However, there is no guarantee that Boston will get the needed long-term fixes to the formula or charter funding that will ensure students of Boston don’t get left behind. We need everyone to send #FundOurFuture postcards to their state senator and representative this week!
We need to be able to count on elected officials to do what is right for our students, educators and schools. This weekend, we have the opportunity tosupport BTU-endorsed candidates for City Council. Join BTU member Brandon Bowser, candidate in District 9, at the Allston Brighton Parade on Saturday at noon. And join Ricardo Arroyo, candidate in District 5 (Hyde Park, Mattapan, and Roslindale) at his campaign headquarters on Sunday at 3:30pm. Please contact BTU Political Director Johnny McInnis if you can join us and remember to wear your BTU blue!
Also this weekend, is our 6th annual Back to School Fair. We’re hard at work getting more than 45,000 books ready for Saturday’s big book give-away! We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to meet Boston public school families. Educators, remember to sign up for FirstBook so that you are able to receive books as well!
DESE is conducting a comprehensive review of BPS. From September 30 to October 11, classroom visits will take place, followed by meetings from October 21-31. The goal of these visits is to identify district-wide trends, not to evaluate individual teachers. Read the letter to principals and headmasters for more information, and contact the BTU or William Eger at weger@bostonpublicschools.org with any questions.
Finally, this Friday, the BTU will join activists, allies, and young people from around the state for the Boston Climate Strike, as part of a global action. Information about how educators can prepare and participate is available. Please see the BPS attendance guidance to families. Have a great week!