Crowd Gathers to Show Support for Gilroy Teachers

When you hold up a sign that says, "Honk if you care about teachers," what do you hear? If you're in Gilroy, get ready for a steady barrage of noise.

The parents and students who made up the crowd voiced concern about The group took up all four corners of Wren and First Street at 4 p.m. on Friday, and grew as drivers saw the signs, parked nearby, and walked back to join the demonstration.

Most of the drivers who passed the demonstrators showed their support by honking wildly. The crowd roared their approval, waving homemade signs and posters that read "SOS" with a graphic of a sinking ship.

Many of the people holding posters are students at Gilroy's public schools.

Cesar Diaz, a sophomore at Christopher High School, said that he is holding a sign in honor of his teachers. "My teachers are really good," he said. "I wanted to support them."

Cesar's little sister, Isabella Diaz, was shy about voicing her support but she nodded when asked if she liked her teachers at Las Animas Elementary School.

Ten-year-old Aracely Delgado said she believes teachers are important. "Very important," added Andy Esquivel. Aracely and Andy are both students at Rod Kelly Elementary School.

Marisela Villanueva, who attends Ascencion Solorsano Middle School, stood near Aracely and Andy, and lent a hand when the wind pulled at their posters.

Ten-year-old Eric Jimenez held up a sign that was small and to the point. "Stop Education Cuts," his sign read. Eric attends Rucker Elementary School.

Nicholas Lewis and Julian Lara, both fifth-grade students at Rod Kelly Elementary School, thought the demonstration was "cool." 

"I like being out here," Julian said. "It's cool when the cars honk."

The parents standing behind Julian and Nicholas all nodded in agreement, and then cheered and waved as the drivers passing through the intersection blew steady blasts on their horns.