Texans in the Houston area had a lot to say about the reasons they are protesting against Betsy DeVos, Trump’s Education Secretary’s visit to Kingwood High School. They did not mince their words or hold back their anger to what she represents to the millions that are suffering under the Trump/DeVos policies.
Betsy DeVos protesters explain why they are protesting
When asked what the problem with Betsy DeVos is, the answer came pretty quick.
“She is not qualified to do the job she is doing,” Greg Broyles said. “She also has an agenda of privatizing our schools. Public education is the bedrock of democracy. Without public education, this country will no longer be a democracy. And we are already falling inches and feet towards that. And she is taking us leaps and bounds.”
Cindy Hendrickson showed indignation to the comment by Betsy DeVos’ press secretary who said the Secretary was in Kingwood to show solidarity and to let them know that the administration did not forget them. Hendrickson said no one knew she, the Secretary was coming in a timely fashion, not even the parents.
Felicia said she wanted to send a clear message that parents won’t tolerate privatized schools. She said they do not want charter schools nor the erosion of Title IX.
Pam reiterated that Betsy DeVos is unqualified for the job as Education Secretary. Cindy said she was not concerned about the education of the kids in Kingwood. After all, the school is in an affluent district, and the kids always do well. She is worried about those who move into Houston proper who would then get vouchers to send their kids to a private school or some other school outside their district. Vouchers cannibalize public schools as they have less money to work with for the remaining children. Carolyn Riggs was taken aback by the visit altogether.
“We have more children in the Houston Independent School District than the people in Kingwood who have a lot more money than they do,” Carolyn said. “They need a lot more help than people in Kingwood, Humble, and Atascocita. Where is she helping them? I don’t see it.”
Carolyn said Betsy DeVos is in Kingwood because it is the home of one of the most influential TEA Party organizations. And they are big Republican donor.