Educators across Colorado are spending their summer visiting union members in their communities, focusing on building relationships and strengthening union engagement. These efforts are part of the Colorado Education Association’s (CEA) year-round organizing program, which aims to connect with members face-to-face rather than through campaigns or sales.
In Jefferson County, members of the Jefferson County Education Association (JCEA) are reaching out to thousands of fellow educators. Their work is centered on increasing involvement in the union and shaping public schools through collective action.
“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 with JCEA, explained 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.”
The outreach has also taken on added urgency in Colorado Springs. There, the Colorado Springs Education Association (CSEA) is responding after the District 11 school board voted in December to end its collective bargaining agreement and eliminate payroll deduction for union dues. The move was described as an attempt to weaken union power by targeting its 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 CSEA President Kevin Coughlin. “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 encouraging members to switch to autopay for dues and recommit to their union.
Angel Givler-Viers, a CSEA member organizer, spoke about the importance of connection: “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 the Colorado Education Association, joined organizers in his home district of D11 and stressed the significance of 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 experiences even when meeting hesitant colleagues: “Even the people who were on the fence were kind,” he said after his first day knocking doors. “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 statewide: “When one contract falls, it gives the opposition ideas that they can do the same thing somewhere else,” he said. “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 activities taking place this summer reflect ongoing efforts by educators throughout Colorado—whether longtime activists or new members—to support each other and shape public education through direct engagement.
