LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Jefferson County Public Schools and the Jefferson County Teachers Association have worked together to create a plan that will allow teachers to protest during the legislative session while keeping school open.
The plan will allow three different individuals from each school to be present in Frankfort each of the four days left in the legislative session. This will mean almost 500 JCPS educators can be present in Frankfort while classes continue in Louisville.
JCTA sent the plan to teachers Thursday afternoon, saying Superintendent Marty Pollio and JCPS worked with the association to come up with a plan of action.
"This plan will provide teachers the opportunity to have a significant presence in Frankfort for the remainder of the session and allow schools to be open," the email said.
Bren McKim, president of JCTA, called the plan a win-win for students, teachers and parents. In an email sent to JCPS employees, Pollio said he was happy to work out a plan to allow protests to happen while schools remain open.
"Please know that I understand the passion that each of you bring to your job, and your commitment to stand up for the resources and supports that are necessary to educate our student," Pollio said.
JCPS was closed Wednesday and Thursday due to teacher protests against a variety of education bills.
Governor Matt Bevin called the protests "irresponsible," questioning whether teacher protests are about power rather than putting students first during a radio appearance.