NJEA members across New Jersey participated in a walk-in protest to oppose federal education policies, including the Trump Administration's proposed dismantling of the United States Department of Education. This event was part of a nationwide effort by educators to express their concerns and commitment to serving students in public schools.
The protest involved educators gathering outside schools before the workday began, then entering the buildings to continue their educational duties for New Jersey's 1.4 million public school students. NJEA President Sean Spiller, who is also running for governor with union endorsement, emphasized the need to resist what he described as damaging policies from the Trump administration, Elon Musk, and Education Secretary Linda McMahon.
“Trump, McMahon and Musk have a twisted perspective on public education,” said Spiller. He argued that they view education as an expendable cost without considering its impact on communities. “Their shortsighted obsession with cutting costs will have long-term and very costly consequences for our nation," he added.
NJEA Vice President Steve Beatty participated in the walk-in at Auten Road Elementary School in Hillsborough. He reiterated that public education is essential for democracy and criticized efforts by the administration to cut resources and censor curriculum. “We will not stand by while Trump, Musk and McMahon work to tear down our most important democratic institutions,” Beatty stated.
Petal Robertson, NJEA Secretary-Treasurer, joined members at Shepard Elementary School in Old Bridge. She condemned the administration's targeting of programs aiding students with significant needs. Robertson highlighted programs like Title I and IDEA that support impoverished districts and special needs education. “Dismantling the department threatens that funding," she warned.
The NJEA members pledged continued advocacy against these policies to protect educational opportunities for all students in New Jersey.
