Teachers voice frustrations over lack of support and respect at D11 school board meeting

In a poignant gathering at the Colorado Springs School District 11 Board of Education special meeting, educators voiced their deep concerns about the current state of teaching and the challenges they face. The atmosphere was charged with emotion as teachers shared their experiences, highlighting a growing sense of disillusionment and a plea for respect and support.

One veteran teacher, with 33 years of experience across multiple states and districts, expressed her heartbreak over the current climate in education. “Not once, not 1 time have I ever felt so disheartened, disrespected, and disillusioned,” she stated, emphasizing her commitment to her students and the district. She spoke on behalf of her fellow educators, advocating for a master agreement that would prioritize the needs of children and provide stability and hope for teachers. “We can’t seem to put our children first,” she lamented, underscoring the disconnect between educators and district leadership.

Another teacher, Dr. Angelica Givler Fears, shared her own journey, recounting moments of triumph and tragedy in her classroom. From celebrating a student’s cancer-free diagnosis to navigating the grief of losing students, she painted a vivid picture of the emotional labor teachers endure. “Teaching is more than following a script. It is so much more,” she asserted, highlighting the exhaustion many educators feel as they adapt to the evolving needs of their students, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The meeting revealed a critical dialogue about the respect and recognition teachers seek, as well as the urgent need for support in a profession facing unprecedented challenges. As educators continue to advocate for their rights and the well-being of their students, the board is left to consider how best to bridge the gap between administration and the dedicated teachers who strive to make a difference every day. The future of education in Colorado Springs hangs in the balance, with the voices of passionate educators calling for change resonating throughout the room.