Local 434 members joined educators from across Illinois to meet with legislators, champion public education, and advocate for the students and school employees who make our communities stronger.

BFT Local 434 members traveled to Springfield to participate in the Illinois Federation of Teachers' Lobby Day, joining educators and school employees from across the state to advocate for policies that strengthen public education and support working families.

Throughout the day, members met with state legislators, marched to the Capitol Rotunda, and spoke directly with lawmakers about the need for sustainable investments in Illinois schools. The focus of this year's advocacy included securing progressive revenue solutions, fully funding public education, protecting schools from potential federal funding cuts, and addressing long-standing issues such as fixing the Tier 2 pension system and supporting education support professionals.

Local 434 President Ashley Mims and Vice President Thomas Gallaher were interviewed by the Illinois Federation of Teachers, where they discussed the real consequences of underfunding public education. They emphasized the impact of prioritizing large-scale development projects and tax breaks while schools continue waiting for the funding they have been promised. Their message was clear: students, educators, and communities deserve to be a priority.

In meetings with legislators, Local 434 members shared firsthand experiences from their schools and communities. Vice President Thomas Gallaher met with State Representative Jay Hoffman to discuss the importance of fully funding public education and investing in every student's success. These conversations give lawmakers valuable insight from the educators and school employees who work directly with students every day.

First-time Lobby Day participants Elisabeth Greenwood, Chelsea Kilzer, and Tiffany Stellhorn joined veteran advocates in making their voices heard at the Capitol. Tiffany met with State Senator Terri Bryant and State Representative David Friess to discuss the importance of investing in people and public education.

Donna Bauman met with State Representative Kevin Schmidt to advocate for summer unemployment support for paraprofessionals and school-related personnel (PSRPs). Their discussion highlighted the financial challenges many education support professionals face during the summer months and the importance of ensuring every school employee has a voice in the legislative process.

We also extend our appreciation to retired social studies teacher Dan Nolman for once again lending his voice to this important work. His continued involvement demonstrates that advocacy for public education extends well beyond the classroom and into retirement.

Special thanks to Nick Yelverton for helping coordinate the day and to the Southwest Area Council–IFT/AFT for providing Local 434 members with the opportunity to engage directly with legislators and advocate for the needs of our schools.

Lobby Day serves as an important reminder that meaningful change begins when educators, school employees, and union members speak with one united voice. BFT Local 434 remains committed to advocating for policies that strengthen public education, support school employees, and ensure every student has access to the resources they need to succeed.

Together, we will continue standing up for our members, our students, and the future of public education.