TPS Parents Rally With ‘Clear Message’ For In-Person Learning

About 100 parents and students brought out signs and a lot of energy as they rallied outside the TPS Education Service Center Monday for a return to in-person learning.

Homemade signs shared messages of frustration.

"I really want go back to school on Zoom, it's so hard," said a student.

"I'd pay more attention and get better grades," said another. 

"Some people's parents are at work all day, they can't give the kids the attention they need," said a 5th grader.

The crowd rallied outside the Education Service Center as drivers honked them on in support. The people at the rally said their message is clear to the school board.

Related Story: TPS Parents Rally For Option To Return To In-Person Learning

"We're asking for a choice, we would love to be back in person," said Marnie Fernandez. 

Marnie Fernandez helped organize the rally. She said her kids are struggling in distance learning.

"Every other district has gone back but us," Fernandez said.

Dad Bryan Harrington agrees. He said his two kids are having to navigate Spanish immersion learning online.

"We want especially the young kids to get into class see their teachers and learn," Harrington said. 

"They have a lot of homework and a lot of alone time. They need to be in a classroom," said Janis David. 

Kids said the hardest part is being away from their friends and teachers.

The group said it won't be quiet about the struggles with distance learning, and that families deserve a choice in heading back to the classroom.