In this post, MORE-UFT member and Chapter Leader Lauren Monaco motivates a resolution defending play during the school day. This resolution will be on the agenda of the November 2025 UFT Delegate Assembly.

“Democracy as an ethical ideal calls upon men and women to build communities in which every individual has the necessary opportunities and resources to realize his or her potential”. - John Dewey (1859-1952)

The purpose of public education is to appropriately meet each learner’s needs and prepare them to be active members of a diverse and inclusive democratic society, in addition to teaching the skills and knowledge base that prepare students for college and career. A responsible education considers the whole individual and is responsive to their academic, social, and emotional needs. Teachers don’t just teach subjects or curricula, they teach students. Ideally, in addition to content knowledge, teachers teach students how to think critically, solve problems, collaborate, and foster their students’ curiosity.