Educators, students, and families in Minnesota came together—from “art build” tables to frozen streets—to stand up for safe and welcoming schools for every child. By organizing, marching, and supporting one another in moments of uncertainty, AFT members are showing how public schools can be places of courage, care, and community power.

Paula Wathen, a career and technical education teacher in Englewood, Ohio, is changing lives by connecting students to skills, careers, and opportunity—and was recently honored with the Golden Apple award for her outstanding work. Her dedication highlights how public schools and union educators help students build pathways to strong futures in their communities.

Members of the Ohio Federation of Teachers in Enon are helping students prepare for successful careers through hands-on learning in soil science, technology, and animal husbandry. By sharing real-world skills and values rooted in responsibility and teamwork, these educators are showing how public schools can open doors to opportunity in classrooms and communities alike.

Members of the AFT are stepping up for neighbors facing hunger and homelessness—donating more than $11,000 in food and cash to a local pantry when federal nutrition funds ran short. By responding to urgent community needs, educators are continuing the union’s long tradition of lifting up students, patients, and families.

Members of North Carolina AFT in Winston-Salem are standing together for the schools their students deserve. Despite low pay and chronic underfunding, teachers are organizing to demand fair funding and professional respect—showing how collective action can strengthen public education for communities across the state.

The New Haven Federation of Teachers members and leaders are standing up for students and families after millions in federal funding for community schools were abruptly cut. By speaking out alongside community leaders, educators are defending programs that improve student achievement, attendance, and mental health—and calling for urgent action to protect these vital supports.

The United Federation of Teachers is uplifting innovative, culturally responsive care in the South Bronx. Through Hip Hop Therapy, a social worker is helping students process trauma, build connection, and thrive—demonstrating how schools can be powerful spaces for healing and growth.

United Educators of San Francisco members are building schools that support the whole child—standing with unhoused students and immigrant families while fighting for the resources kids need to learn and thrive. This is union work centered on care, community, and student success.

Peoria Federation of Teachers Local 780 members teaching career and technical education opened the door to a future built on hands-on learning. Through construction trades coursework, industry certifications, and a paid internship, a Peoria Public Schools graduate discovered her passion and gained the skills and confidence to step directly into a rewarding career.

In Indiana, Gary Teachers Union members hosted a free book fair that put the joy of reading front and center. Students of all ages selected books they were excited to read over winter break, strengthening literacy, curiosity, and community through Reading Opens the World.

Minneapolis Federation of Educators and Education Minnesota are standing up for students’ right to safe, welcoming public schools. By speaking out against ICE activity near school buildings, they are making clear that protecting students, families, and school staff is a moral responsibility.