In rather unsurprising fashion, the powers that be at the American Federation of Teachers are taking up a cause with no discernible connection to improving the education of our nation’s students.
The AFT Michigan and California chapters are boycotting office supply chain Staples because of the decision to install postal counters in stores, undercutting the interests of the American Postal Workers Union, according to Politico.
Because this is an issue so near and dear, AFT officials felt the need to throw their hat in the ring and urge people to increase their use of mailboxes and shop at Office Depot. That’s right, they’ll be darned if anyone has the audacity to purchase a single paper clip from any one of Staples’ over 1,500 locations in the U.S.
And they’re not stopping there. Apparently, the Michigan branch plans to call for a nationwide boycott of Staples, though it’s unclear whether teachers and union officials in other states will feel the same sense of urgency.
If the nationwide boycott is approved, it’s safe to assume the Michigan AFT union chief won’t be pressing a “that was easy,” button, and will have to resort to another way of celebrating.
At this point, it’s difficult to see how the installation of postal counters at an office supply store fits in with the interests of teachers and students, but the Michigan and California AFT chapters seem convinced that this is a priority.
In the meantime, boosting stagnant student proficiency rates and advocating for innovative learning options will have to make room for preventing Staples shoppers from simultaneously purchasing stationery and mailing letters.
Teachers will continue to teach, students will continue to attend school, and state union reps will busy themselves with ridding the scourge that is automated mail service.
But rest assured, it’s for the students (or something.)