Members of AFT Connecticut's Norwalk Federation of Educational Personnel are highlighting the vital role paraprofessionals play in public education—from classrooms to hallways to school buses. Through their care, dedication and daily support of students, paraprofessionals help make learning possible and keep schools running strong—showing how every role in a school community matters.

In Florida, members of St. Johns Educational Support Professional Association are speaking out about how cuts to SNAP and school meal programs would impact students’ ability to learn and thrive. By advocating for proper funding for food and nutrition programs, these school workers are standing up for the resources students need to succeed—because hungry students can’t learn.

Members of United Teachers Los Angeles reached a tentative agreement with LAUSD after 14 months at the bargaining table that delivers major wins—from long-overdue fixes to salary scales and paid parental leave to expanded student support staffing and special education improvements across the district. These gains reflect the power of collective action to secure the resources, protections and supports that strengthen public schools for Los Angeles students and families.

Members of the Montana Federation of Public Employees are being recognized for their leadership in online learning through induction into the Montana Digital Academy Teacher Hall of Fame. These educators helped shape the future of their profession—demonstrating how unions not only protect workers’ rights, but also lead innovation and excellence in teaching.

Members of the Albuquerque Federation of Certified Professionals are supporting students at Valley High School in Albuquerque through the “Viking Closet,” led by Educational Assistant Tillie Velasquez. Providing everything from food to formalwear, the space offers students a sense of dignity, belonging and support—showing how school staff and community partnerships can uplift the whole child.

Members of the Pittsburgh Federation of Teachers, alongside AFT Pennsylvania, are expanding opportunities for students at Pittsburgh Westinghouse Academy through career and technical education programs. With apprenticeships and full-time careers already lined up for many graduates, these efforts are helping students build stable, affordable futures while still in high school.

Members of the Asociación de Maestros de Puerto Rico came together with community partners in Cataño to celebrate a new edition of the Wave of Books at Mercedes García School of Colorado. The event put books directly into students’ hands, reinforcing that reading opens doors to imagination, critical thinking and future opportunities.

Members of the University of Hawai‘i Professional Assembly supported students at Lahainaluna High School in Lahaina, Hawai‘i, as they rebuilt after the devastating 2023 wildfire. With strong community support and free tuition from the University of Hawai‘i, 85 percent of the class of 2024 enrolled in college, with some already on track to earn associate degrees.

Education Minnesota member Derek Huseby is building meaningful relationships with students at Mahtomedi Middle School through simple, creative interactions. From daily questions to lunchtime polls, his efforts help students feel seen, safe and engaged—showing that every staff member plays a vital role in creating a positive school community.

More than 10,000 free books were distributed to Philadelphia students at Murrell Dobbins CTE High School during an “It’s a Lit Day” book fair hosted by the Philadelphia Federation of Teachers as part of the AFT’s Reading Opens the World campaign. The event helped students build home libraries and spark a love of reading.

Members of the Birmingham Federation of Teachers worked alongside community leaders to rebuild schools after a state takeover and the pandemic. With strong local leadership and targeted student supports, their collaborative efforts have improved school performance and re-engaged students.

The Saint Paul Federation of Educators is leading efforts to ensure artificial intelligence supports teaching without replacing educators. Through collective bargaining, they secured protections against job loss and reinforced the importance of keeping humans at the center of learning.

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear vetoed a bill that would divert public funds to private schools, standing alongside KY 120 United-AFT members and communities across the state who have been fighting to protect public education. With voters in all 120 counties rejecting similar efforts, this decision reflects the clear will to invest in and strengthen neighborhood public schools.

After nearly a year in federal detention, Bronx student Dylan Lopez Contreras has been released and reunited with his family. Throughout his detention, his educators, members of the United Federation of Teachers, stood by him, demonstrating how school communities come together to support and protect their students in moments of crisis.

Montana Federation of Public Employees member Hannah Pepper has been selected for a prestigious Fulbright global exchange, connecting her classroom in Montana with educators around the world. By bringing new perspectives and global collaboration into her teaching, she is helping prepare students for an increasingly interconnected future.

More than 2,000 educators, families and community members gathered in Fairfax for a Reading Opens the World event, where volunteers distributed free books and learning resources. The event reflects a shared commitment to literacy, opportunity and building strong connections between schools and their communities.

Detroit Federation of Teachers member Kristen Schoettle is speaking out about how immigration enforcement actions are affecting students and families in her community. With some classrooms empty and many students living in fear, educators are stepping up to support their students in ways that go far beyond the classroom.

Members of the Culver City Federation of Teachers, along with school employees, parents and students, rallied as part of the AFT’s March 4 Day of Action to Protect Our Kids, Our Families and Our Communities. Together they spoke out to ensure schools remain welcoming, safe places for all students.

Ohio Federation of Teachers members in New Lexington are rethinking how they prepare students for life after graduation. Through an innovative workforce development program, students are earning industry certifications and gaining hands-on experience in fields like robotics, healthcare, construction and agriculture.

From coast to coast, AFT members and community allies held events to demand opportunity, freedom, safety and affordability for all. Together they spoke out against cuts to schools, rising barriers to college, understaffed hospitals and the economic pressures facing working families. Their actions showed what’s possible when educators, healthcare workers and communities stand together to protect our kids, our families and our communities.

Montana Federation of Public Employees member Monica Thompson helps students build confidence, creativity and resilience through the arts. Recently named Montana Art Educator of the Year and Pacific Region Elementary Art Educator of the Year, Thompson creates a supportive space where students can take risks, express themselves and grow—showing how arts education helps students thrive in school and beyond.

Members of the Pittsburgh Federation of Teachers are helping students turn their passions into professions through an innovative Emergency Response Technology program at Westinghouse High School. Supported by an AFT innovation grant, the program gives students hands-on experience and real-world training—building pathways to meaningful careers while strengthening the public safety workforce.