Welcome to the Thompson Education Association
Statement from the
Thompson Education Association (TEA) Executive Board
Today, we stand in solidarity with students and community members who are peacefully protesting the actions of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) that have caused fear and instability in our schools and communities.
Our classrooms are strengthened by the rich diversity of Colorado’s families. When immigration actions create fear that keeps students home, silences their voices, or separates families, it is felt directly in our schools by ALL students and staff. When students are afraid, they cannot learn.
Colorado has a proud history rooted in collective action and the belief that people deserve a voice in decisions that affect their lives. From coal miners who fought for safer working conditions to educators who have organized for equitable school funding, our state’s progress has always been driven by workers standing together. The labor movement in Colorado reminds us that meaningful change comes when ordinary people speak collectively and demand dignity, safety, and justice for all.
TEA believes that public institutions, including our schools, must serve and protect communities, not undermine them. We support peaceful protest as a fundamental democratic right and as a powerful expression of all people.
We call upon policymakers to prioritize humane, community-centered approaches that keep families together and ensure that schools remain safe, welcoming places for all children. We also reaffirm our commitment to standing alongside labor partners across Colorado to advocate for policies that uplift working families and strengthen our communities.
When workers raise their voices together, change becomes possible.
As educators, we will continue to advocate for the well-being of our students and the dignity of every family we serve.
Sue Teumer, TEA President
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Members of the TEA Executive Committee: Kayla Steele, Alex Lindsey, Richy Lynn, Annamarie Pike, Lindy Jones, Jill Date, Todd Bessey, Molly Houston, Rachel Woods,
Megan Courtright, Arika Schlagel, and Erik Kaufhold
February 8, 2026
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Members of the TEA Executive Committee: Kayla Steele, Alex Lindsey, Richy Lynn, Annamarie Pike, Lindy Jones, Jill Date, Todd Bessey, Molly Houston, Rachel Woods,
Megan Courtright, Arika Schlagel, and Erik Kaufhold
February 8, 2026
