Defending Education Uncovers May Day Toolkit Funded by $1.7M from the Nation's Largest Teachers Union with Director of Research at Defending Education Rhylen Staley

A new report from Defending Education is raising concerns over political activism in schools, as Director of Research Rhylen Staley details the discovery of a “May Day Toolkit” allegedly backed by $1.7 million in funding from the nation’s largest teachers union, National Education Association. According to Staley, the materials encourage student participation in organized demonstrations and promote messaging tied to broader activist movements, sparking debate among parents and policymakers about the appropriate role of educators and unions in shaping political engagement in the classroom. The findings add fuel to ongoing national discussions about transparency, curriculum influence, and the balance between civic education and advocacy in America’s schools.