CEA Endorses Ned Lamont Connecticut teachers endorse Lamont
HARTFORD, June 15 – As a member of the U.S. Senate, Ned Lamont would be a strong advocate for public schools, and that’s why Connecticut’s two teacher unions are endorsing his candidacy.
Rosemary Coyle, president of the Connecticut Education Association, said, “Lamont will challenge the current administration and its priorities. He understands that the answer to even better schools is not more standardized tests or vouchers. The key is adequate resources from the federal government to support universal preschool and expanded educational opportunities at every level. This is a critical time in the history of public education as the federal government imposes unrealistic requirements on schools, and it’s time that Connecticut had a champion for students, teachers and public education in the U.S. Senate.”
Sharon Palmer, president of AFT Connecticut, said, “Our educational system has been pushed to the limit by the requirements under No Child Left Behind which has been underfunded by $45 billion,” said Palmer. “Ned Lamont will support students and teachers by fighting to fully fund this federal mandate.”
CEA and AFT Connecticut held a news conference at 10:30 a.m. today to announce their endorsement.
Coyle pointed out that Lamont volunteers in a 50-year old inner-city public school, and he has said that quality public education is our best hope for providing every child the best opportunity in life. “He has felt the same frustrations teachers face, and he is listening to their concerns. Across Connecticut, his vision resonates with teachers who have dedicated their lives to helping children. He has the energy and determination to refocus our nation’s priorities. A win for Ned Lamont in November will be a win for Connecticut’s teachers and students.”
Lamont is committed to fixing the nation’s health care system, providing affordable housing, upgrading public schools, and strengthening our economy. He has a firm grasp of retirement issues that are critical to teachers. Palmer said, “He recognizes what it takes to maintain a high-quality teaching force. He understands what it takes to attract and retain teachers. He’s not just energetic and enthusiastic, he’s sensitive to the needs and demands of teachers. He will lead this nation in the right direction.”
Members of the CEA Board of Directors unanimously endorsed Lamont for U.S. Senate at their meeting on June 2 and forwarded their action to the NEA Political Action Committee. AFT Connecticut endorsed Lamont for U.S. Senate at their Executive Committee meeting on June 8.
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