MERCER, Pennsylvania - The fate of the middle class and the future of children was on the agenda at a rally in Mercer County on Saturday.

About 50 people gathered outside the Mercer County Courthouse for the rally.

The people attending say budget cuts of almost a billion dollars are cutting into the education of children at a time when education is more important than ever to compete globally.

"We had five teachers retire last year who were not replaced, we had one person furloughed, and we've had teacher aides who have been cut. It ultimately translates into fewer offerings in what we can give our kids and larger class sizes. In particular, it is really striking our elementary school," said Mike Kalpich at teacher in Sharpsville.

Those attending the rally spoke out about the erosion of the middle class and the union's rights to bargain for a fair wage They say that politicians have tried a divide and conquer strategy, but add all workers have benefited from the union's fight for an eight hour work day, family leave, along with child labor and safety protections in the work place.

"The government and different people have tried to turn the average American worker against the union like it's a war. It's not, we're in this together. We believe everybody has a right to work," said David Hill, Carpenters Local 268.

"Where are the jobs? They should be concentrating on creating jobs and stimulating the economy. We should be investing in infrastructure jobs and our people to get us moving along," said Mickey Bolt, Regional Representative for the Alliance of American Manufacturing.

They add people need to use their power at the polls on Election Day and chose candidates who support education, creation of jobs and the middle class.

"Before you go (to the polls), educate yourself. Go beyond the platitudes, the 30-second sound bites on either side, the punditry, really find out what's going on," said Marcus Schlegel, PSEA Regional Representative.