Public education advocates rally to campaign against Amendment 2

HAZARD, Ky. (WYMT) – With the election quickly approaching, many groups continue to campaign for voter support.

A major issue on the November ballot is Amendment 2, which focuses on school financing.

Public education advocates gathered at the Appalachian Arts Alliance in Hazard as part of Protect Our Schools KY’s #VoteNOon2 homestretch tour.

Kentucky Education Association President Eddie Campbell said his experience in the public school system encouraged him to advocate for public schools to get all the resources they need.

“As a public school teacher, I am a strong supporter of our public schools,” Campbell said. “As a product of public schools, I know what public schools do every day to change the lives of students. So it’s important for every community to make sure our public schools are fully resourced and have teachers welcoming students every day. Our public schools are the heart and soul of every community in the Commonwealth.”

Educators and advocates spoke about the importance of the public school system, saying the issue takes away two crucial resources from public schools.

Advocates on the other side of the issue said it’s about supporting Kentucky parents who have control over their children’s education and the right to choose schools that reflect their values.