BRATTLEBORO — It was great to be part of the group - well over 100 of us - who showed up at Pliny Park in support of the state budget and in support of teachers while similar gatherings happened all over the state.
Our voices are needed. Governor Phil Scott vetoed a budget that had passed nearly unanimously in the legislature (173–1, with all Republicans but one voting for it).
Unfortunately, Governor Scott vetoed it because the Legislature refused to pass a last-minute proposal of his to take away teachers' rights to bargain for health care at the local level in favor of a statewide plan.
It's become clear that at the heart of this issue is collective bargaining and how much local control communities are allowed to have over our schools.
In the end, this is about people. Schools and communities thrive when teachers are valued. Economies can grow and lift all boats when workers' rights to organize are protected.
I am grateful that our local elected representatives continue to fight for local savings and local control.