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Public schools are the heart of our communities. They are where kids discover the joy of reading, where families come together for literacy nights and concerts, and where Friday night football turns a school into the center of town.
Public School Proud is a celebration of those moments—big and small—that make our schools special. From spelling bees to science fairs, from art shows to book giveaways, we’re lifting up the joy, pride and connection that public schools bring to millions of families every day.
This campaign is about more than nostalgia. It’s about reminding people what they already know in their hearts: public schools are worth protecting and investing in. When we celebrate them, we strengthen the movement to keep them strong for the next generation.
Join us in sharing the stories, photos, and memories that make you #PublicSchoolProud.
December 19
Peoria Federation of Teachers Local 780 member and music teacher Tyler Bishop turned a classroom inside joke into “6-7 Christmas,” an original holiday song inspired entirely by his students. By writing, arranging, and producing the track himself, he showed how creativity and connection in the classroom can spark something joyful for an entire school community.
In upstate New York, educators and leaders of the Wellness Workforce Collaborative are working to protect school-based mental health supports after federal cuts forced program reductions and family center closures. Their determination shows what it takes to ensure students continue receiving the care, counseling, and connection they rely on.
Botkins teachers used their Reading Opens the World grant to bring books and literacy fun to families at a winter celebration. From choosing free books to visiting Santa and exploring hands-on activities, students and parents experienced the joy of reading together while building a stronger school community.
In Spring, TX, educators partnered with AFT and First Book to put brand-new books into the hands of students and families. Their Winter Wonderland event spread holiday cheer while helping children build their home libraries—creating opportunities for reading, learning, and joy that last long beyond the season.
December 12
AFT St. Louis educators are expanding literacy by partnering with families through Reading Opens the World, bringing books, guidance, and daily reading practice into homes across the city.
In Lexington, KY, KY120 United educators are helping students step into civic leadership by connecting classroom learning with real community engagement. From working with the NAACP to hearing from local leaders, students are discovering how their voices and actions can shape the world around them.
Chicago Teachers Union educators Corey Blake and Amaziah Burton share what it means to fight for students every day—protecting LGBTQIA+ youth, defending honest history, and ensuring schools uphold safety, dignity, and opportunity. Their union contract gives them the tools to make that vision real.
December 5
At the Harbor School in New York City, students learn marine science, vessel operations, and even build underwater robots. With dedicated UFT educators guiding them, hands-on career and technical education is opening pathways to powerful futures.
After the 2023 wildfires, UHPA members brought thousands of books to children and families in Lahaina, offering literacy, comfort, and connection as the community continues to rebuild.
Houston Federation of Teachers members are committed to creating supportive school environments where students feel empowered to voice their experiences. In Houston, students like Rose are now speaking out about how the state takeover is impacting their classrooms and their ability to learn.
November 28
Thanks to a partnership with the Ohio Federation of Teachers, students in New Lexington are getting a jump-start on high-wage careers through a hands-on partnership with the IBEW — wiring homes, mastering skilled trades, and preparing for in-demand jobs before graduation.
High school interns with the New Haven Federation of Teachers are learning how to organize, advocate, and uplift their peers’ voices — showing how youth leadership can strengthen schools and communities.
In Kansas City, MO, educators and volunteers have mobilized thousands of healthy snacks to fight rising food insecurity, ensuring students can stay focused, nourished, and ready to learn every day.
November 21
Educators in St. Louis, MO are expanding joyful literacy opportunities, as Reading Opens the World brings books, engagement, and excitement to students across the city.
Professional Staff Congress members stood with immigrant students and families in court, defending their rights and affirming that every person deserves safety, dignity, and justice.
At Massachusetts’ Lawrence High School, hands-on internships in local healthcare facilities are motivating students academically and helping them envision meaningful careers in their community.
The University of Hawai‘i Professional Assembly highlighted the essential role faculty play in student success — including a Leeward Community College chef teaching both culinary skills and community care.
November 14
AFT members from New York joined Asociación de Maestros de Puerto Rico to revitalize Escuela Dr. Julio Henna—planting gardens, building playgrounds, repairing classrooms, and donating thousands of books and supplies.
After months of organizing and community support, Minneapolis Federation of Educators members reached tentative agreements that include enforceable smaller class sizes, more special education support, and pay raises for all educators.
At Stony Brook University, American Association of University Professors member Amanda Flanagan manages a FAST Fund that provides emergency aid—helping students access food, textbooks, and other essentials as SNAP benefits run out.
November 7
Frontier Central Teachers Association members hosted a community literacy fair where families took home thousands of free books, with support from future educators in the district’s Education Pathways Academy.
Baltimore City educators are teaching BMore Me, a social studies curriculum that reflects students’ identities and empowers them to see themselves, their history, and their role in shaping the world.
At Turie T. Small Elementary, educators partnered with Bethune-Cookman University musicians for a joyful Reading Opens the World book giveaway, showing how community schools bring resources and opportunities to students.