The implementation of the school reform of 1870 in the Sovereign State of Cauca provoked the reaction of various social actors. Among these we find parents of San Rafael (Pasto), who acted in defense of their interests and beliefs. Colombian historiography on the subject has not systematically addressed the relationship of these actors with the reform; for this reason, we aim to make visible their actions and positions, demonstrating that they were not a passive instrument in the struggle for political control. In short, parents' reactions were aimed towards achieving goals benefiting them.