Budzinski Announces Belleville Special Education Teacher as Guest for President Trump’s Joint Address

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13) announced that her guest for President Trump’s Joint Address will be Lisa Quandt, a special education teacher in Belleville, Illinois. Lisa has been an educator for 30 years and is a member of the Illinois Federation of Teachers Chapter 434. 

The date of the Joint Address, March 4, aligns with the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) “Protect Our Kids” campaign. This is a nationwide effort to oppose the Trump administration’s proposal to cut funding for the U.S. Department of Education.

“In recent weeks, President Trump has unleashed a wave of attacks on the Department of Education. His call to dismantle the department altogether threatens the existence of programs that support low-income students and those with disabilities. The necessity and impact of these programs are not up for debate,” said Budzinski. “As the proud aunt of a nephew with Down syndrome, I know just how important special education is to make sure all kids have the opportunity to thrive. That’s why I’m honored to have Lisa Quandt as my guest for President Trump’s Joint Address. As a dedicated special education teacher, Lisa is a true hero in our community, working tirelessly to help Belleville students learn and grow. I hope that her attendance reminds the President of the real people who are suffering because of his actions.” 

Congresswoman Budzinski has been a staunch advocate for public education throughout her time in Congress. She is a cosponsor of a resolution reaffirming support for public education and condemning any executive or congressional actions that would weaken or dismantle the Department of Education or redirect funding for public education, including voucher programs. She recently hosted a roundtable with the Illinois Federation of Teachers and special education advocates to discuss President Trump’s proposed attacks on the Department of Education. 

Congresswoman Budzinski’s Special Guest: Lisa Quandt

Lisa Quandt has been teaching for 32 years. After graduating college with an English degree, she began her career as a full-time substitute teacher at Belleville West High School. As a substitute, Lisa worked closely with students with emotional and behavioral disabilities and was then asked to work full-time in the special education department. Lisa loves helping her students accomplish their goals and overcome obstacles to become “great humans and citizens.” She also notes that Covid was an especially hard time for her students because they could not access the accommodations and emotional support they rely on. Outside of the classroom, Lisa coaches the varsity cheer team and sponsors the National Honor Society, Student Council, Chick-Fil-A Leader Academy, Prom, and the BASIC Youth Board.

For media interested in speaking with Congresswoman Budzinski and Lisa Quandt, please contact Josie.Lionetti@mail.house.gov 

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