When we learn that the former Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, called the head of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) union the most “dangerous person in the world,” we’re more convinced than ever that we have to keep fighting for teachers, unions and students, not just here in Lakeland but across the nation.
Lakeland RISE is steadfast in its support of LGBTQ+ students, staff and families. Not because we are activists, but because we believe that everyone has the capacity to be a decent human being, and that everyone, including students, should feel safe and supported being their true selves.
Miguel Feliciano, a recent Walter Panas graduate, sees Lakeland as a perfect example of what’s happening in school districts across the country.
“We’re seeing a small percentage of parents coming into these board meetings and being the voice that our trustees are hearing,” Feliciano says. “They’re not representative of the entire community — because I would say a vast majority of parents do support DEI initiatives — but the minority is the loud voice.”
Following George Floyd’s murder at the hands of police, a group of Lakeland alumni came together to push the district into action on racial justice. While a march in June 2020 was attended by hundreds of students, parents, teachers, and community members, and an online petition garnered over 1,300 signatures, calls for tangible change district-wide also invited antagonism from those opposed to DEI efforts.
Studies show students are more successful in school when they can see themselves in their teachers, but statistically, at least in terms of race, that’s not happening in New York schools.
“Joe, Paul, Chuck and Laura have proven to us that they have the tenacity and courage to take on the responsibility of leading Lakeland forward.” Read why three former Lakeland Trustees endorse these candidates for the Board of Education.
“Now is the time to familiarize yourselves with candidates, vote and let the district leaders know what means most to you. Many of us might be attempting to stay anonymous, trying to avoid controversy, but at what cost? Our children’s education is at stake.”
“As a parent and taxpayer, I not only expect but demand schools provide my children with a comprehensive education, reflective of the real world they will face. Lakeland is at a crossroads. We can bow to cynicism, fear and propaganda or we can stand up for all children, their teachers and the faculty and staff that support their education and development.”
Four candidates from varied backgrounds – but with a shared commitment to the best in education for their community’s students – have won the endorsement of ‘Teach the Truth’ in the upcoming Lakeland Central District school board election.
Lakeland RISE (Residents in Support of Education), a grassroots advocacy organization of diverse residents committed to strong school board leadership and increased community engagement, announced its support of four candidates for the Lakeland Central School District (LCSD) Board of Education.