Governor Rally Review
by Parents Advocate League

Dear PALs,

The rally Thursday was a great success! Thanks to all of you who were able to make it. I know there were many of you who wanted to go but could not, due to vacations, and you were there in spirit. I met many wonderful parents, teachers and students from CUSD and Saddleback.

It was a huge disappointment when we found out the governor canceled his appearance at St. Margaret's, but we continued to rally. It was confirmed by a history teacher at St. Margaret's that the governor planned to be there to congratulate St. Margaret's football team for a victorious season and canceled his appearance due to the rally so it would not take away from the wonderful season they had.  

Some parents from St. Margaret's were not happy with the rally and yelled at protesters that they ruined it for their children. Protesters were also yelled at by other parents and students telling us to go home, in addition to the occasional obscenities. It is unfortunate that some parents did not understand we were not there to protest their school. We were there to protest the budget cuts to public education. I'm hopeful that once they understand that, they will direct their dissatisfaction toward the governor for not keeping a promise to appear at their school. I am truly impressed with all the people who stayed there despite the governor's no-show.

As the rally went on, it was confirmed that the governor would be at El Adobe restaurant for a Republican fundraiser. Most of the protesters walked from St. Margaret's to the restaurant. We lined the sidewalks with signs and chanted, "Save our schools!" The teacher's unions from CUSD and Saddleback were there as well. Other protesters regarding Tressels were in front of the restaurant, too. Once the governor got there with his SUV motorcade, there was no way for him to miss the hundreds of protesters. Our point was made on behalf of the students and teachers of California!

The rally will be on KDOC's Daybreak OC from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m.

Thank you for all your continued support for our students and teachers.

Julie Collier

www.parentsadvocateleague.org