FROM THE PRESIDENT

Public education is at the forefront of every Kansas community because our community public schools are more than places where students learn. They are the heart of our towns and neighborhoods. They bring people together, support local economies, develop future leaders and help keep Kansas communities vibrant, strong and alive.

As educators, we know that when schools thrive, communities thrive.

That is why this election season is not about Republicans versus Democrats. It is about Kansas values. It is about supporting leaders who believe in public education, who understand its importance and who are willing to invest in its future.

Recently, NEA President Princess Moss spoke about the need for educators to become their own political authority and focus less on partisan alignment and more on the issues that matter most to students, educators and communities. She emphasized working with anyone willing to put public education first, regardless of political party.

That message resonates here in Kansas.

For KNEA, that means continuing the shift from partisan alignment to issue-based advocacy and from professional advocacy to professional autonomy. It means supporting candidates, whether Republican or Democrat, who will fully fund public schools, respect educators' expertise and stand against vouchers and privatization efforts that drain resources from neighborhood schools.

We must build the public education system Kansas students deserve. That requires ensuring every student has the support they need to succeed and every educator has the resources, respect and professional voice necessary to thrive.

Just as importantly, we need greater engagement and belonging within our union and our communities. Your voice matters. Vote. Talk with your elected officials. Share stories about your students' successes. Show your neighbors the difference public schools make every day.

The future of public education will not be determined by political parties alone. It will be shaped by engaged Kansans standing together for Kansas values and for the promise of strong public schools in every community.

Vote informed. Vote for public education.

In solidarity,

Sherri Schwanz,
President
Kansas National Education Association (KNEA)