AFT President Randi Weingarten Calls Cardona Priorities ‘Brilliant and Inspiring’

WASHINGTON—American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten issued the following statement after Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona’s remarks earlier today outlining his priorities for supporting the recovery of students, families, educators and school communities:

“Today, Secretary Cardona reminded us how important our public schools are for the health of our communities and our country as a whole. The secretary’s remarks were brilliant and inspiring in their practicality about how to support kids and their families as well as schools and educators right now. 

“The secretary made clear that it’s not simply about keeping school buildings open, but about how we do what we do in our classrooms to help all kids recover. He centered his remarks on helping our kids socially and academically with wraparound supports and counselors, extracurricular activities, tutoring and career pathways; and he made clear that these services can be provided immediately with American Rescue Plan resources. He also highlighted the importance of equity—helping all kids, engaging parents and respecting educators, and doing so with real deeds and actions like a living wage, not just words. 

“Thank you, Mr. Secretary for making clear that the ideas and supports to help our kids succeed are within our reach with the will, the resources and intentional collaboration.”