The dialogue revealed a stark reality: today's schools shoulder far more than just academic responsibilities. "In our schools, we love being the center of the community. That is who we are ultimately," explained NYSUT President Melinda Person. "But we have become the social safety net for the state of New York." She noted that even college campuses now maintain food pantries to support students' basic needs.

Educators highlighted several critical challenges. schools lack sufficient personnel for intervention programs, while Title I funding cuts continue to strain resources; post-pandemic mental health needs have surged, yet schools face a shortage of mental health professionals; and young educators increasingly question their career longevity due to overwhelming responsibilities.

Amy Kochan McBride, president of Cheektowaga Sloan Teachers Association, voiced a common concern. "Young professionals are coming to me saying, 'I don't know if I can do this job tomorrow, because it's so overwhelming, all of the roles that we play.'"

A particular point of frustration emerged around standardized testing. Maryvale Teachers Association President Adam Smith observed, "We're teaching to the test. Getting my students to problem solve now, I've noticed such a decline because they just want to be given the answer."

Rich Nigro, president of the Buffalo Teachers Federation, added that testing deflates student motivation. Kennedy agreed, stating firmly, "Teachers ought to be teaching—not teaching to a test. This is a battle we've fought before in New York, and I'll be right alongside you as we bring this fight to the federal level."

Kennedy emphasized his dedication to securing better funding and support for education. "You want to talk about a trickle-down negative impact? You have a cut at the top... it's the children getting impacted," he explained. "Teachers are the most articulate to the needs, and quite frankly, the most effective. Anyone involved in government and funding the public education system should know that initiatives like Title I are essential to our children."

Concluding the meeting, Kennedy expressed his gratitude. "I want to thank all of you. I want to thank teachers across New York and across the nation for what you do every day. I'm proud to call you my partners and allies."

The Common Ground Over Chaos bus tour continues through election week with additional stops planned.