A mural at at El Sereno Middle School (Photo – Melissa Michelson).
Today I needed to show solidarity with the teachers on the picket line.
By Melissa Michelson
I don’t have children, nor do I live in the Los Angeles Unified School District, but it was easy to find a school near me. I went on Google maps and chose El Sereno Middle School. Here are some suggestions before you hit the picket line.
- Join the teachers from 7-8 a.m. when school opens, or when school lets out from 2:30-3:30 p.m.
- Bring whistles and noise makers and wear red.
- Hold one of the signs that they have prepared for you. The signs state why they are striking and what they and the students are experiencing. If you want to make your own sign, be sure it conveys similar messaging
- Introduce yourself to someone who looks like a leader. When I just showed up today and was taking pictures and asking questions, they thought I was a charter school mole, which is understandable because they have never seen me before.
- Take a place on the sidewalk, ideally close to the curb. Wave your sign, make some noise and join in the chants.
- Tell the teachers you appreciate them. I am an educator so I understand that it takes an intolerable situation for a teacher to go on strike. On the picket line a teacher told me about his repeated attempts to have the thermostat in his room fixed so he could turn on the heat. Today an administration representative attempting to hold a class could not do so because of the same failed thermostat.
- Before you leave, ask about the plan going forward and find out how to stay in the loop. Some suggestions: UTLA (teacher’s union) Facebook and UTLA’s website.
Overall, the vibe on the picket line was positive with passers-by honking in support of the teachers. It was an eye-opening experience, and I encourage everyone to go out at least once.
Melissa Michelson is a resident of Alhambra.
A Teacher on strike (Photo – Melissa Michelson).
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