Monday, March 14, 2011

The Cipher Live at Rally to Save Texas Schools

The Cipher performs live at the Rally to Save Texas Schools on March 12th, 2011.

An even bigger crowd than expected at the "Save Texas Schools" rally in Austin. More than 11,000 people marched their way to the steps of the state capitol.

A stamped of students parents and educators lined the streets of Austin Saturday afternoon, they had one lesson they wanted to teach lawmakers, and that's "Save Texas Schools." Their songs and their signs said it all.

"I do feel that our government is stealing our children's education and I will not have it," said Kevin Wulff.

"A money sign, right there but I marked it out because they're taking away money," said 3rd grader, Halle Dillard, third grader.

People of every age, and from every corner of the state gathered to protest proposed cuts of nearly 10 billion dollars to public education. Cuts that have already hit home for former teacher of the year Tracy Milligan.

"I currently do not have a contract for the following year, and no guaranteed position in my school district," said Milligan.

A handful of lawmakers came out in support. as for the governor, he got a message from famous motivational speaker and Texas student, Dalton Sherman.

"Governor, It may look like sunshine outside today, but I got to tell you, from where I am in the classrooms it's raining," said Dalton Sherman. A request to use the 9 million dollars in the rainy day fund. Lawmakers in favor of using some of the funds caution what could lie ahead for other members of the legislature.

"They're gonna pay a price in the next election from what I see here," said Rep. Mark Strama.

Ralliers returning home hoped their message left a lasting impression with lawmakers. Organizers also want the governor to sign the paperwork to free up $830 million dollars in federal aid for education.

By the way, Monday marks another big day at the Capitol for education. The American Federation of Teachers expects record turnout for AFT lobby day.

Filmed, Edited & Produced for Austin Indymedia by Jeff Zavala. A ZGraphix production. http://zgraphix.org

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