Support LRSD Teachers & Staff

Note: This fund is not to pay teachers and staff for continuing to work during a work stoppage but to fund supplies, meals, and activities to make school during this time less stressful for teachers staff administrators and students.

The dedicated educators and staff in Little Rock School District need our support. There is a plan to restore LRSD to local control, everyone agrees that a community school model is what is needed in our struggling schools, and a personnel policy committee truly representing 100% of teachers and staff is being established. Much work has been accomplished by all stakeholders. However, let’s be clear about one thing, the students of Little Rock cannot endure an extended disruption. Any disruption to the learning environment will have negative effects on students and staff and a strike in Little Rock disproportionately impacts our most vulnerable children, families, and employees. We at ASTA  are concerned that educators are being encouraged to participate in a work stoppage that may very likely be deemed illegal and unethical. The proposed work stoppage puts additional stress on hardworking teachers who are left with the difficult decision to risk backlash for showing up for their students. These educators know there are other ways to advocate that does not use the well-being of our students as leverage. We want any and all educators in Little Rock who put students first to know they are supported and appreciated.

 

To this end, we ask that you consider making a tax deductible donation to a fund that will support educators and staff who continue to serve students during workplace disruptions to provide students with the learning, services, and care they need. ASTA will provide meals to schools, fulfill urgent classroom requests, and help ensure the work environment and resources are supportive and encouraging. There is no wrong way or wrong time to support our educators, your support will go a long way. Because of the large number of schools to serve at one time, we appreciate any amount you would be willing to contribute to this fund. Any unused funds will be directed to our Classroom Grant and Teacher Scholarship Program and earmarked for LRSD teachers, which is open to all educators.

Thank you for your consideration,

Michele

Michele Ballentine-Linch, PhD

Executive Director
Arkansas State Teachers Association
225 S. Pulaski, Suite 200
Little Rock, AR  72201
Tel: 877-742-ASTA (2782)
Fax: [phone redacted]
Email: [email redacted]
www.astapro.org