How can educators, unions and the community work together to ensure that all children receive a quality education?

Unions can act as liaisons to bring together educators and community groups. Unions can begin by identifying areas of common interest between the various groups and then by providing a forum for these groups to come together and discuss these common issues and goals.
Elizabeth Quinn, Indiana Federation of Teachers

Business leaders should take an active role in aiding schools both financially and educationally. When businesses profit from skilled labor, they can see the need to invest in the school and participate in the training process.
Janice Guy, Jefferson (La.) Federation of Teachers

The news media could enlighten the public through reporting on "a day or a week in the life of a teacher" and what the job actually entails. If the community understood—or at least had an awareness of the daily chellenges that teachers face—they might be more inclined to support our efforts in educating young people.
Patricia Farrington, North Syracuse (N.Y.) Education Association

I believe the union needs to work with teachers to establish an environment where teachers and parents can sit down in an open forum and discuss the needs of today's students. If politicians are going to force education to vacillate between this program or that program, then we need to find those [candidates] who support our findings and elect them.
Jerry Dearbonne, Houston Federation of Teachers

All parties should come together to support after-school programs for safety, creativity, enrichment, physical exercise and tutoring. Research confirms the benefits, which extend into the school day through improved attendance and good habits.
Barbara Freeman, Adirondack (N.Y.) Teachers Association