BY: BRODY PETSKA

Freedom in Education had the liberty of attending the annual Teacher Freedom Summit hosted by The Freedom Foundation in Denver, Colorado, from July 10-12. The three-day event consisted of numerous speakers, workshops, and breakout sessions focused on creating practical solutions to the many well-known issues surrounding American education today. Guest speakers such as Dr. James Lindsay and Dr. Carol Swain thrilled the audience with their enthusiasm and tenacity. Each attendee received a free copy of “The Marxification of Education” authored by Dr. Lindsay and “Black Eye for American…How Critical Race Theory is Burning Down The House” authored by Dr. Swain. I had the pleasure of meeting many wonderful teachers, educators, and administrators who reminded me of the importance of our work. It is without a doubt that each attendee left the Summit with renewed hope and passion for the betterment of education across the U.S. 

 The first night of the conference was my initial introduction to the many like-minded organizations that are advocating for a better alternative in the field of education and beyond. “The Fairness Center,” a nonprofit, public interest law firm, and “Americans for Fair Treatment” a nonprofit focused on educating public employees on how to hold their unions accountable, gave fantastic presentations. Both organizations were able to shed light on the transgressions committed by unions. Teacher unions, like the NEA, have covertly hijacked public education in the U.S. and have steered it toward their own misguided agenda. For example, in 2022 the NEA spent $41 million on political activities and lobbying. While acquiring $375 million in membership fees, they had plenty of financial power to influence the ideological direction of the U.S. This was done without the consent of the American people. However, The Fairness Center, Americans for Fair Treatment, and the Freedom Foundation have committed themselves to delivering protection, resources, and information to help those in need when the unions attack.

The following day was packed with workshops and panels. Every attendee was up from sunrise to sundown, attempting to digest all of the information they possibly could. I noticed an individual who got coffee at 5:30 AM, just to see them again at midnight still networking at their booth! That goes to show the level of dedication these teachers have for their careers and the next generation of this country. Later that evening, Freedom in Education had the courtesy of hosting two, fifty-minute workshops full of educators. The two speakers, Melissa Jackson, and Beanie Geoghegan, delivered a captivating introduction to Freedom in Education and all of the work the organization has done in the past year. As Beanie was showcasing our recent accomplishments such as our Good Book Drive and The Franklin Standards, I saw teacher’s faces light up! I could feel hope soar through the room. For the last four years, teachers have been bombarded with a substantial amount of negativity, whether it be directed at them or their occupation. They are constantly held responsible for the slow decline of quality education in the U.S. when in reality their hands have been tied behind their backs. They feel like their classrooms are not theirs anymore, which is an immense problem. So to see them excited about being educators again was such a rewarding experience. Freedom in Education’s Teacher Coalition is the perfect avenue for teachers who are ready to break free from the chains of the current education system and take back control of their classroom. The coalition was a hot topic during our speech, with over 60 teachers expressing interest in joining. As our workshop ended, we found ourselves talking to countless people who were interested in what Freedom in Education has to offer. 

Later that night, we had the pleasure of listening to Dr.Carol Swain and hearing her story. Although she was born into poverty and dropped out of high school, she managed to earn five degrees from numerous universities. In a culture that is obsessed with handouts and not taking individual responsibility, this was refreshing to take in. She has revitalized the idea that America is a place of opportunity, no matter who you are. That if you work hard enough, you can prosper. In her words, “I believe that the American dream is still alive. It’s not easy, but it’s possible.”  After the speech, the attendees made their way to the exhibit hall where Freedom in Education hosted an open bar with our signature cocktail “The Freedom Fizz!” That concluded a remarkable second day of the conference.

I was a little slow getting up the next morning (hopefully I wasn’t the only one). Most people were focused on packing up and dismantling their booths for their haul back home. Even so, that didn’t stop attendees from making last-minute connections with influential movers and shakers in the Education realm. After a long and lively three days, the Summit came to its conclusion. I’ll be the first to say it was worth every second. The Freedom Foundation presented a fabulous instructional event that gave us a renewed perspective on our goals for the future. Let us not forget the exemplary service and care the Sheraton hotel staff provided during our stay. I haven’t had meals that good in a long time! Our sincere gratitude goes out to them, the Freedom Foundation, and everyone else who attended.

We can’t wait to see you next year! God Bless America!