Educators across Colorado are spending their summer organizing efforts to connect with union members in their communities. Members of the Jefferson County Education Association (JCEA), part of the Colorado Education Association’s (CEA) year-round organizing program, are visiting thousands of colleagues. Their focus is on building relationships and encouraging involvement in union activities that impact public schools.
“This isn’t just something we’re doing in our free time. We are on a mission. We’ve got a goal. We’ve got hearts and minds at stake,” said Ben Wells, JCEA member and CEA member organizer.
Lisa Gary, another organizer, described her motivation: “I love doing this. I love going to people’s homes. Somebody answers their door and they’re down to sit on their porch and talk for 30 minutes—just getting that chance to listen to people and elevate their issues is everything.”
In Colorado Springs, the organizing effort has taken on new urgency after the District 11 school board decided in December to end its collective bargaining agreement with the Colorado Springs Education Association (CSEA) and stopped payroll deduction for union dues. This move has been described as an attempt to weaken union influence by limiting resources.
“We’ve exhausted all options to make sure people know that union values and solidarity are the most important things for educators and students in District 11 right now,” said Kevin Coughlin, president of CSEA. “There are people in the administration and on the school board who are actively working against public education. This is why we’re out here.”
CSEA responded by launching a campaign focused on helping members switch to autopay for dues payments and reaffirming commitment to the union.
Angel Givler-Viers, a CSEA member and organizer, said, “I love being with other people who believe in public education. It helps fill my bucket so I can keep going because some days are really hard. Advocating for teachers to make sure their voices aren’t taken away—that’s what keeps me coming back.”
Kevin Vick, president of CEA, joined organizers in his home district during these efforts: “We are truly in the breach. If you believe the district is worth saving, then we are the best path to make that happen. There is no other power.”
“So much of the world feels out of our control right now. This is a place where you can take action. Where you can have ownership in the outcome. Where you’re not a bystander—you’re part of the solution,” Vick added.
Sam Farnham, another CSEA member organizer, noted positive interactions even with those unsure about participating: “Even the people who were on the fence were kind… We already have so much in common—we’re teachers. We live in the same neighborhoods, we’re working on gardening projects, we care about the same kids. That human connection is everything.”
Coughlin emphasized unity among educators: “When one contract falls, it gives the opposition ideas that they can do the same thing somewhere else… That’s why it’s critical we all stand together. Contract or no contract, we have to protect what we have and empower others to fight for more.”
The organizing work this summer involves both long-time activists and new members joining through personal conversations at their doors—a process aimed at strengthening membership as well as advocating for public education across Colorado.
