Members of the Colorado Education Association along with public education and labor supporters plan a Wednesday protest of the Denver appearance of controversial U.S. Education Secretary Betsy DeVos this week.
DeVos is scheduled to speak Thursday at the annual meeting of the American Legislative Exchange Council at the Hyatt Regency Denver.
Critics say both DeVos and the American Legislative Exchange Council support the privatization of public schools.
“Betsy DeVos will be in town plotting with ALEC to dismantle public institutions that support opportunity for Colorado students, educators and families,” Christina Medina, a teacher and member of the Denver Classroom Teachers Association, said.
Protesters will gather at 10 a.m. on the west steps of the state Capitol. After a short rally, protesters will march to the Hyatt Regency and conclude the rally about 11:30 a.m.
Speakers at the Wednesday rally are scheduled to include several candidates for elected offices as well as Tay Anderson, 18-year-old candidate for Denver Public Schools Board of Education.