LYNN — Educators, administrators, paraprofessionals, parents, and community supporters gathered outside Lincoln-Thomson Elementary School — and at public schools across Lynn — for a citywide “walk-in” Tuesday morning.
Clad in bright red, they aimed to raise awareness about the Trump Administration’s plan to dismantle the Department of Education and significantly reduce federal education funding. These cuts could severely impact cities like Lynn, which receives over $15.5 million in federal aid each year.
Organized by the Lynn Teachers Union (LTU), the walk-ins began 15 minutes before the start of the school day. Educators and administrators stood side by side, emphasizing the potential harm such cuts could inflict on critical student programs, especially for those most vulnerable — English learners, students with disabilities, and those from low-income families.
“We have to respect government decisions — we vote people in; the public voted who is in — but the decision-making around education can really impact a city like Lynn,” said Deputy Superintendent Deb Ruggiero.
“All of these children in our schoolyard right now — this is our future right here. Our teachers work really hard to provide them with all the knowledge they need for a strong future, and if they start cutting grant funding — titles and SPED (Special Education) 240, which are integral to our budget — it will be impactful if they cut that.”
Educators like fifth-grade teacher Sarah Krasowski echoed these concerns, noting that proposals to strip funding or dismantle the Department of Education would do significant harm.
“Everything we do is for our students. If the federal government slashes funding, it will end services for many of our most vulnerable kids, especially those with disabilities and our English learners,” Krasowski said. “We see the weight of these policies every single day.”
The local events were part of the “Protect Our Kids” Day of Action, a statewide initiative organized under the umbrella of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) Massachusetts. Although Lynn educators rallied at Lincoln-Thomson Elementary, teachers, paraprofessionals, and supporters also gathered outside schools across the city. Similar actions occurred in Revere, Lawrence, Boston, Springfield, and other districts across Massachusetts.
Colleen McElligott-Liporto, vice president of the LTU and a member of the AFT Executive Board, highlighted the unity between teachers and administrators in Lynn.
“We want the community to know that the administration and teachers all deeply care about our students. It’s important to note the administration is standing beside teachers in support of union actions,” she said. “We want everyone aware that Lynn is especially vulnerable to funding cuts, and we stand together to protect our kids.”
Organizers hope that by showcasing a unified front — and highlighting the real-life effects of reduced federal funding — community members and policymakers alike will recognize the importance of preserving resources for public schools. For now, educators, administrators, and families in Lynn remain committed to ensuring that all students — regardless of background or need — have the support and opportunities they deserve.
