Posted: Wednesday, February 8, 2012 --- 4:20p.m.

The Wisconsin Education Association Council (WEAC) has recommended Kathleen Falk for governor in the recall election of Scott Walker. The announcement is the result of a democratic selection process conducted by teachers and support staff representing educators across the state.

Mary Bell, a teacher and WEAC president, said the recommendation is the next step in the movement that began nearly a year ago. “Wisconsin educators have been at the forefront of this movement ever since the first attack on worker rights was leveled nearly a year ago,” she said.

“Today, we take the next step. WEAC’s candidate recommendation adheres to a democratic process that involves members and leaders from across the state. There have been many strong advocates for Wisconsin families who have stepped forward as potential candidates but we believe in the democratic process guided by the issues our members care deeply about, and that’s what this recommendation represents.”

“I support Kathleen Falk in her bid for Wisconsin governor,” said 2010 Wisconsin Teacher of the Year Leah Luke. “Despite being a challenging year for Wisconsin educators, we have remained focused on what is most important – our students. However, we are ready for a change. Kathleen Falk shares our values and vision for a better tomorrow for all Wisconsin students.”

Bob Peterson, president of Wisconsin’s largest WEAC affiliate in Milwaukee, said Kathleen Falk spoke to educators there before announcing her candidacy, demonstrating her passion, energy and deep understanding of the issues affecting children, public schools and communities. “Kathleen Falk spoke of the vital importance of supporting public education and providing services and support to the children that need it the most,” Peterson said. “Her remarks left the crowd standing in applause. She erased any doubt about whether she is the right person for the job and inspired educators to believe that we can reclaim this state.”

Bell said representative members on the recommendation committee focused on issues that matter most to educators as part of the selection process. These include commitment to strong public schools, giving employees a voice in the workplace and leadership approach. “Kathleen Falk cares deeply about the issues that matter to Wisconsin educators,” Bell said. “She is committed to Wisconsin and has boldly come forward to lead the next phase of our grassroots movement.”

“Our members have raised their voices against Scott Walker’s divisive policies and will continue to engage their neighbors and communities in discussions about why recall is necessary to reclaim our state. Kathleen Falk has a proven track record in transparent and responsible government, and shares our belief in fairness and democracy.

“We cannot afford to sit back,” Bell said. “Our state must focus on jobs, improving education and helping citizens. Kathleen Falk is ready to bring people together to find solutions, instead of tearing people apart as Walker has done.”