Union Leader Proposes 10-Point Plan to Revitalize Public Education

Union Leader Proposes Comprehensive Plan for U.S. Public Schools Amid Technological Changes

WASHINGTON—In a significant address at the National Press Club, AFT President Randi Weingarten introduced a forward-thinking strategy for America's public education system. Her proposal aims to balance the integration of technology while enhancing educational experiences for students.

The address, titled “Devices Down, Eyes Up, Hands-On: 10 Points to Boost Teaching and Learning in the AI Era,” highlights a 10-point action plan that emphasizes hands-on learning amidst the rapid technological advancements affecting classrooms nationwide.

Weingarten advocates for a ban on screens and online assessments for students from pre-K to second grade and calls for the elimination of student-facing AI in elementary schools, particularly banning “social companion” chatbots for those under 16.

She stated, “We are at a crossroads that will define the future of work and society. Without proper oversight and strong guardrails, there will be real dangers to our safety, privacy, climate and the very fabric of society.”

While not opposing AI entirely, Weingarten stressed the need for a balanced approach: “What I am calling for is getting the balance right to harness the benefits of technology while mitigating the harms.”

The presence of AI, according to Weingarten, magnifies the importance of education's core mission—developing critical-thinking skills and knowledge application, even amid widespread “cognitive offloading.” She stated, “When so much information is just a prompt away, acquiring trustworthy knowledge is just the first step. To be useful, that knowledge must be applied. … To really prepare young people for complex challenges, our true goal is to have students who can work together and problem solve.”

Weingarten’s 10-point plan is informed by research, best practices, and extensive discussions with educators and stakeholders. “One thing the AI revolution does not change,” she emphasized, “is the essential purpose of education: teaching students how to think and giving them enough knowledge to do it well.”

Key Points of the Proposal

• School Redesign: Introducing active learning through project-based, experiential, and career-connected methods across all grade levels.
• Foundational Skills: Ensuring proficiency in literacy, numeracy, and civic engagement.
• Student Well-being: Addressing basic needs to prepare students for learning.
• Intellectual Property and Academic Freedom: Protecting these areas while supporting educators in technology integration.
• Safety and Privacy: Establishing a new standard for AI use in schools.
• Independent Research Consortium: Conducting studies on the effects of AI and technology on education.
• Education Funding: Advocating for increased funding by reversing disinvestment trends and preventing AI from further defunding public education.
• Tech Tax: Proposing a tax on Big Tech to address the disruptions caused by technology.

Weingarten’s vision contrasts with the Trump administration's approach, which favors Big Tech and privatization. Her plan centers on human relationships, democratic values, and inclusive education.

She urged Democrats to support her vision, criticizing some for being “frankly AWOL” on public education, even as it remains a priority for voters. “Democrats have been and still are among the strongest advocates of strengthening public education,” she said, adding that too many Democratic leaders haven’t prioritized it adequately.

Weingarten highlighted the necessity to understand the implications of tech on education and to develop a positive framework for public schools nationwide.

“We need a relentless, intentional focus on what our young people need: greater literacy, numeracy and civic engagement, and active learning that excites and engages them—all while ensuring their social and mental well-being and ability to form healthy relationships. Devices down, eyes up, hands-on.”

Concluding her speech, Weingarten expressed optimism as the nation celebrates its 250th anniversary:

“America’s teachers—as they always have—are doing noble work; they’re showing up every day to help young people realize their potential and build our collective future. Today’s students will be the ones who heal, help and lead us. They will be the environmental stewards, the innovators, the artists, the first responders and the teachers of tomorrow.”

“The other side is trying to exploit the current crisis to destroy public education and pluralism as we know it. We have a different vision: to revitalize and reimagine public schools so every one of our students can harness their future and build the country they dream of.”

Weingarten’s full speech can be watched back here. 

AFT Overview

The AFT represents 1.8 million pre-K through 12th-grade teachers; paraprofessionals and other school-related personnel; higher education faculty and professional staff; federal, state and local government employees; nurses and healthcare workers; and early childhood educators.

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