Why is it so important to get out and vote? “We must stand together as educators and continue to advocate for a strong system and better resources all around,” says Waterbury teacher Sabrina Del Negro.
That’s why, when the National Education Association (NEA) launched a postcard contest on the theme “Get Out the Vote,” the Crosby High School art teacher was inspired to capture the message.
“I wanted to spread the word to remind people to share their voice and go out and vote,” says Del Negro. “Voting is important at all levels, especially when it comes to education, and especially this year.”
Del Negro’s design took second place in the national competition.
A passionate advocate for “guiding students on artistic journeys through personal expression and creativity,” Del Negro says she was inspired to create her postcard design by the United States flag and an apple.
“The word ‘vote’ automatically brought the American flag to my mind. I was inspired by the iconic stars and stripes of our flag, so I knew I wanted to include that,” she says. “And the apple is a symbol of education, and it reminds me of the teaching profession.”
She adds, “When it comes to education, we have to keep advocating for better resources all around and for a strong public school system.”
“We are so proud of all of our teachers, who—like Sabrina—are passionate advocates for a strong democracy and strong public schools,” says CEA
President Jeff Leake. “I urge all our members to take her message to heart and vote—our students’ future depends on it.”
Find out where the candidates for State House and Senate stand on issues of importance to teachers by checking out CEA’s Legislator Report Card and Candidate Comparisons.
