(CNN) Thousands of Indiana teachers are turning the state Capitol into a sea of red as they demand better pay and more funding for public schools.

At least 147 school districts canceled classes Tuesday for the "Red for Ed Action Day," said Kim Clements-Johnson, spokeswoman for the Indiana State Teachers Association.

Thousands of teachers wearing red surround the Indiana Statehouse in Indianapolis on Tuesday.

Connie Neri-Jones and 150 of her colleagues drove more than two hours from East Chicago, Indiana, to protest.

"Teaching is a profession, not a charity," said Neri-Jones, who's worked in Indiana schools for 47 years.

"We have a huge shortage of qualified teachers, and increased funding could help ameliorate that demand."

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