Wearing black and carrying signs that read, “Help us help our students,” “Bridgeport students deserve more,” and “Respect teachers,” teachers, parents and community members from across the city protested outside City Hall today, calling for actions to elevate education in Bridgeport.
“Back-to-school has been a nightmare for students and teachers,” said Bridgeport Education Association President Jeff Morrissey. “We started the school year in chaos and distress with no end in sight. We need action from the superintendent and board of education to help us help our students and provide the support and respect that our educators and students rightfully deserve.”
From a lack of books and working computers to a shortage of desks, lockers, and certified teachers, school psychologists, and counselors, educators are calling attention to dozens of shocking and troubling issues in every public school across the city that are jeopardizing student learning. They are demanding the resources students need, the respect teachers deserve, and support from the superintendent and Board of Education members.
“It’s disheartening to see the chaos caused by leadership that fails to value the voices of teachers,” said CEA President Kate Dias. “When superintendents disrespect educators, it directly impacts our ability to create a stable, supportive environment for our students. Teachers are ready to collaborate and lead, but we need a commitment from district leadership that respects our profession and prioritizes the well-being of our students.”
Last week’s meeting where more than 500 Bridgeport teachers gathered to document key problems at all of the city schools—including confusing, inconsistent new schedules, unreasonable curricula, ineffective professional development and more—led to today’s rally.
Bridgeport teacher Mia Dimbo spoke out because she said the challenges of working in one of the largest and most underserved districts in the state must be made public so that policymakers understand the scope of the crisis and the need for the district’s decision-makers to address the problems.
“We have classrooms where technology is outdated or nonexistent, leaving our students without essential tools for learning in a digital age,” said Dimbo. “Class sizes are ballooning beyond compliance limits, classroom environments are too hot or too cold, and students can’t concentrate. These are the daily realities that hinder our ability to do what we do best: educate and support our students. This rally is sending a clear and urgent message to the administration that our dedicated, hard-working teachers need and deserve support to provide our students with a quality education.”
Four Bridgeport Board of Education members have shown their support for educators, including Robert Traber, a former Bridgeport educator, who spoke at the rally.
“I have stood where teachers are today and know what you are going through,” he said. “I stand here now as a policymaker telling you that I support you. I respect you. I am committed to advocating for changes that address your issues and acknowledge the essential role you play in shaping the future of our community. Thank you for all you do, and let’s continue to stand strong and push for the changes that will benefit both our students and our teachers.”
Teachers have vowed to continue to voice their concerns and call on leaders to fix the problems and stop jeopardizing students’ futures.
“We stand together as advocates for the changes our schools need,” added Morrissey.” and we will continue to advocate with resolve and determination to do what’s right for our students and our profession.”
