Dear WTU Members,
As my time as President of the Washington Teachers’ Union comes to a close, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to each of you—for your unwavering dedication to our profession, for the trust you placed in me over the past years, and for the solidarity we’ve shared through some of the most defining moments in our Union’s history.
From serving as your Vice President to leading as your President, it has been the honor of a lifetime to stand with you and for you. Together, we have weathered unprecedented challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and emerged stronger. We’ve fought hard—and won—for the dignity and respect every educator deserves, securing not one, but two contracts that reflect the true value of our work. We’ve pushed to place a librarian in every school, demanded safe learning environments, and worked tirelessly to restore and strengthen the financial health of our Union.
Each of these victories belongs to all of us. It has truly been the honor of my professional life to lead this union alongside so many passionate, committed colleagues.
My journey began over three decades ago in the classrooms of Washington, D.C.—from Plummer to Hyde, from Thomson to Savoy, where I was honored to serve a community that helped shape who I am. Every student, every colleague, every lesson along the way deepened my resolve to advocate for equity, excellence, and opportunity.
While I won’t be leading from the front anymore, I will continue cheering you on from the sidelines. If we continue to support each other and stand together the WTU will continue to thrive—because it is powered by your passion, resilience, and commitment to one another.
Thank you again—for the years, the memories, and the mission we’ve shared. I wish you nothing but continued strength and success as you carry our work forward.
In Solidarity Forever,
Jacqueline Pogue Lyons
P.S. Thank you and love you much Noah, Ashley, Mommy, Michelle, and Kimberly!
