Suzanne Laird to STRS board: What will it take for STRS to see the light? It is now time to stop the subterfuge and begin working with us, the very teachers who belong on this Board. There is strength in numbers, there is strength in truth.

From Suzanne Laird

October 16, 2025

Speech to STRS board 10/16/2025: What will it take to move forward?

Good Morning, Members of MY Board:

I wonder, what will it take?

What will it take until all members of my Board and all 500 employees begin taking us seriously? We have quite a few new people in this room who seem to continue to promote the false narrative that we present “misinformation.” For example, despite actual physical proof, vanity town halls are claiming that the COLA was never guaranteed. Is this simple ignorance or willful ignorance?

What will it take? Your own governance advisors (GGA, p. 25, last month), suggest transparency on fees and cutting costs, yet later today I notice you will discuss continuing to replace retiring staff, instead of cross-training and downsizing.

If you won’t listen to your own advisors, how about the magistrates, judges and courts?

Colluding with senior research advisors, lobbyists, and legislators to violate constitutional law borders on more than ignorance, it implies arrogance.

I, myself  (and my famous sign), have been attending these Board meetings for more than 10 years and am fortified by the recent joining of OFT, OEA, and AAUP in current and upcoming lawsuits.

What will it take for STRS to see the light? It is now time to stop the subterfuge and begin working with us, the very teachers who belong on this Board. There is strength in numbers, there is strength in truth.

What will it take to move forward?