In an age where corporate interests and standardized testing increasingly dominate public education, the question we must ask is: Who truly owns our schools? At Reclaim Our Schools PG, we believe the answer is simple — the community does. Every student, every parent, every teacher and staff member has the right to shape the educational experience. This article explores why it’s time to reclaim public schools and re-center them around students and communities — not bureaucracies or bottom lines.
The Public School Belongs to the Public
Public schools are not just institutions where students take tests and earn grades. They are community hubs, places where young minds are nurtured, where values are passed on, and where futures are shaped. However, when decision-making is driven by politics, profit, or disconnected policymakers, students suffer.
- Students are treated like numbers.
- Educators lose their autonomy.
- Communities are silenced.
This system needs a reset — one that starts with your student, your school.
The Power of Community Voice
Too often, parents and students are left out of key conversations. They’re not at the table when funding decisions are made, curriculum is drafted, or policies are enforced. That must change.
We believe that:
- Parents know what their children need to thrive.
- Students understand what inspires or fails them in the classroom.
- Teachers deserve respect and support as professionals.
When these voices unite, they bring a people-powered vision for schools — one that’s democratic, inclusive, and just.
What Real Equity Looks Like
Reclaiming our schools also means demanding equity over equality. Not every student starts at the same place. Some face systemic barriers rooted in poverty, racism, or ableism. A truly community-led school:
- Invests more in those who’ve been denied resources.
- Embeds culturally responsive curriculum.
- Supports mental health and social services.
- Protects the rights of Black, Brown, immigrant, and LGBTQ+ students.
When we say your student, your school, we mean a school that adapts to your child — not one that forces your child to adapt to a rigid system.
How You Can Get Involved
Reclaiming our schools is not a one-time campaign — it’s a movement. Here’s how you can start:
- Attend your local school board meetings and speak up.
- Join or support a grassroots education advocacy group.
- Talk to your child’s teachers — build relationships.
- Demand transparency and accountability from education leaders.
The Fight Ahead
The movement to reclaim public education is growing. Across the country, communities are resisting school closures, challenging privatization, and fighting for student-centered policies. Reclaim Our Schools PG stands with all who believe in equity, justice, and public good over private gain.
Remember: Your student deserves more. Your school belongs to you. Let’s reclaim it — together.
🔗 Visit reclaimourschoolspg.org to learn more, get involved, or share your story.
