Through my work with the Utah Education Association (UEA), what has stood out to me most is how often the educator’s voice gets lost.
When I collaborate with my team, attend district meetings, or chat with colleagues at lunch, I am surrounded by professional educators. These are people deeply invested in education. They are lifelong learners, always seeking the most effective ways to support students. I am privileged to work with innovators and problem solvers—individuals who work tirelessly to meet students' needs without demanding more. They are resourceful, resilient, and supportive.
Yet, these amazing people aren’t the primary voice of education. Lawmakers hold a voice, but they spend little time in schools or with teachers. The UEA is a voice, but it may not always capture the unique needs of every district, classroom, and student. Our districts are a voice, but sometimes our priorities and challenges don’t align. School leadership is also a voice, but it is often subdued by budgets, politics, and policies.
We, as educators, need to be our voice—and we need to get loud. We must become more passionate and invested in telling our stories because our stories are compelling and important. Change will only happen when we start speaking outside our comfort zones.
It’s time for educators to claim their voice and make it heard.
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