In December 2019, our union of teachers of Summit Public Schools, Unite Summit, was officially recognized. Citing issues of teacher sustainability and the lack of student supports, Summit’s teachers voiced our need for change; sadly, these concerns have largely gone unanswered. For 19 months, we’ve been at the bargaining table negotiating our first contract. Our teachers and our students have waited long enough; we need your support to show Summit Public Schools it’s time to settle a fair contract that gives your children the schools, teachers, and environment they need and deserve.

Most glaringly, our schools have insufficient student supports for our English language learners, students with disabilities, and students in need of mental health services. Additionally, Summit has not taken the steps to ensure that our undocumented and trans/nonbinary students feel safe and supported on our campuses. We need Summit to prioritize the safety and security of ALL students.

Experienced teachers and low teacher turnover allow schools to develop strong cultures and support the specific communities our students come from. The need to settle a fair contract is real and urgent. Without it, we fear that the constant turnover of teachers will continue -- something only made worse by the unprecedented teacher shortage. A school model premised on the importance of relationships with mentors cannot function at its full potential when only 30% of teachers currently working at Summit have been with our schools for more than three years. We need Summit to prioritize the health and growth of our teachers with transparent, equitable, and balanced practices.

By signing the petition below, you are joining our calls for Summit Public Schools to prioritize our students, our schools, and our teachers.

Thank you for your support!