John,
 

This week, two Minnesota school districts made headlines.
 

Together, they demonstrate why school board elections, local organizing, and community power are crucial.

In St. Francis, after months of advocacy and a lawsuit, banned books are going back on the shelves. A Moms for Liberty-backed policy built around the Book Looks censorship tool was struck down. Decisions about what students can read will once again be made by trained educators, librarians, and media specialists, not extremists pushing political agendas.

Meanwhile, in Prior Lake-Savage, the school board voted to eliminate the district's Equity and Inclusion resolution, despite strong opposition from students, parents, and community members. The resolution was originally created after racist incidents targeted students of color. But after gaining seats in the last election and following national attacks on DEI efforts, the board majority moved to eliminate it. The message is clear: they are more focused on targeting any mention of “equity” than on supporting and protecting students.

This is why our work matters. When we elect school board members who believe in integrity, belonging, and honest education, and when communities are engaged and organized, we can protect public education. But it only happens if we keep showing up. If you believe in this work, please chip in to help us train, support, and elect local leaders who will stand up for students, not political agendas.

 

 

And these fights aren't isolated.

Across the country, extremists are working to ban books, whitewash history, silence LGBTQ+ students, and dismantle programs that help every student learn and thrive as their authentic self.

In partnership,

Kyrstin