Click here for Indigenous Peoples Lesson Plans and Resources.
KEEPING YOU INFORMED - Negotiations Update By Ruben Mancillas
Some of my feelings regarding this eventful week reminded me of this quote from William Faulkner’s Nobel Prize acceptance speech. I might substitute “educators” for his words about poets but the sentiment is the same:
“I decline to accept the end of man. It is easy enough to say that man is immortal simply because he will endure: that when the last dingdong of doom has clanged and faded from the last worthless rock hanging tideless in the last red and dying evening, that even then there will still be one more sound: that of his puny inexhaustable voice, still talking.
I refuse to accept this. I believe that man will not merely endure: he will prevail. He is immortal, not because he alone among creatures has an inexhaustible voice, but because he has a soul, a spirit capable of compassion and sacrifice and endurance. The poet’s, the writer’s, duty is to write about these things. It is his privilege to help man endure by lifting his heart, by reminding him of the courage and honor and hope and pride and compassion and pity and sacrifice which have been the glory of his past. The poet’s voice need not merely be the record of man, it can be one of the props, the pillars to help him endure and prevail.”
Thank you to our nurses and teachers who spoke eloquently at Wednesday night’s board meeting. As Ray noted, it is crucial to maintain effective communication regarding substantive changes to our working conditions. We are mindful regarding managerial rights to adjust schedules, for example, but having the opportunity to share information about such changes helps to assuage concerns from our members and parents alike.
The results of our recent school board elections to replace our two outgoing board members have yet to be officially finalized. (I just watched Ray’s video below, he is confident and not waiting to announce the good news!) While we may not yet have a definitive confirmation of who will be the new board members from trustee area 1 and trustee area 4 I do want to thank Mr. Beach and Dr. Eugenio for their service. Mr. Beach expressed his appreciation for having a positive working relationship with ABCFT during his closing remarks.
Thank you to those who responded to our calendar survey. The negotiating team will be meeting in the coming weeks to work on a general survey for members in preparation for our return to the bargaining table. The release of the Governor’s initial budget for 2025-2026 in January will give us needed context for the economic forecast as we move forward. A reminder: we bargain for salary and benefits every year but every three years we negotiate master contract language as well. The COLA for the 2024-2025 is 1.07%. According to Mr. Nguyen’s interim report at the board meeting, the district is on schedule for deficit spending given this low a COLA and the impact of ongoing declining enrollment. Given that this is a master contract year, it will an opportunity for us to discuss changes in language that will improve the working conditions of our members in an environment when funding is insufficient for gains on the salary schedule. During our rep council meeting yesterday we received ideas as to some proposed areas where the contract could be strengthened (and thank you for the email suggestion I received just now!). Additionally, Dr. Fraser will be reaching out to his administrators in the next month regarding the formation of a stipend subcommittee. The goal of this committee will be to gather input from sites and grade levels about our stipend schedule. Ideally, it should mirror the actual practice throughout our district. Which stipends need to be added, correctly identified, or augmented? This will be another tool we can use at the table to bargain for stipends that meet the needs of all of our members.
In Unity,
UNDERSTANDING THE MASTER CONTRACT
ARTICLE XV: EVALUATION PROCEDURES
We had written previously regarding frequency of evaluation but our rep council meeting raised some questions. To recap:
Probationary unit members shall be evaluated at least once every year. Permanent unit members shall be evaluated at least once every two years. Those unit members who have been employed by the District at least ten years, are Highly Qualified, and whose previous evaluation was satisfactory shall be evaluated at least once every three years. Both the unit member and the evaluator must consent to this schedule.
The unit member or evaluator may withdraw consent for this evaluation cycle at any time. The determination to extend or withdraw consent by the District shall be at the sole discretion of the evaluator. The decision to withdraw consent by the evaluator shall be based on specifically identified reasons or concerns with performance of the California Standards for the Teaching Profession (CSTP) that are communicated to the unit member by the evaluator.
No later than May 15 of the school year, in which the evaluation takes place, a written copy of the evaluation shall be presented to the union member.
By the end of the school year, a conference will be held between the unit member and the unit member’s evaluator to discuss the written evaluation.
ABCFT’s position is that when members make a good faith effort to meet all aspects of their evaluation cycle, when they make themselves available to participate in the meetings and have been formally observed, that they have met their responsibilities for that particular cycle.
This month’s academic service update is vital for all teachers. We hope you will take a moment to look at this monthly report, which discusses changes in academic services that could impact your classroom. This document provides the union with a means of giving the District feedback on the many programs or changes they are proposing at any time. Without your feedback or questions on these changes, it is harder for ABCFT to slow down and modify the district’s neverending rollout of new projects. Please submit your comments and questions to the appropriate ABCFT liaison.
For Elementary curricular issues, please email Megan at Megan.Mitchell@abcusd.us , for Secondary curricular issues, please email Catherine at Catherine.Pascual@abcusd.us, for Secondary PAL topics please email Megan at Megan.Harding@abcusd.us , Special Education PAL topics please email Brittney at Brittney.Parker-Goodin@abcusd.us if you have any questions or concerns.
Click Here For This Month’s Full Report - November
REFLECTIONS OF AN EDUCATOR - BY ELEMENTARY VP MEGAN MITCHELL
Megan Mitchell - Vice President of Elementary School
6th Grade Teacher- Cerritos Elementary School
"There is light in darkness, you just have to find it.” –Bel Hooks
I know many of us are feeling a sense of uncertainty in the aftermath of what has been a difficult election season. It’s natural to feel disheartened when policies and decisions seem to undermine the value of our work and when we are left with more questions than answers.
However, let's remember the power we hold as educators. Our classrooms are more than just rooms; they are spaces of infinite possibility. Each day, we shape young minds, inspire curiosity, and cultivate empathy. Our impact extends far beyond test scores and standardized assessments, we often serve as the anchors for our scholars in the midst of the storm. We can empower them to be compassionate, informed, and engaged citizens.
Let's continue to advocate for our students and our profession. Let’s work together to build strong, supportive communities within our schools. Let's celebrate our successes, no matter how small they may seem. Let’s continue to spark joy for our scholars and ourselves within our school communities.
As I reflect on my own educational journey, I am filled with gratitude for the incredible teachers who shaped me. It was my 3rd grade teacher, Mrs. Judy Hiroshege (Wittmann Elementary and retired ABCFT member), who offered a comforting hug after the LA Riots, making me feel safe and seen.
In the midst of the 2000 election confusion, my 9th grade English teacher, Mrs. Krista Williamson (Whitney High School and former ABCFT member), empowered me to use my voice and articulate my thoughts.
Following the tragic events of Columbine, my 10th grade English teacher, Mama Debra Logan (Whitney High School and retired ABCFT member), pivoted her lesson to provide comfort and support.
During the uncertain times post-9/11, my AP US History teacher, Mr. David Bohannon (Whitney High School and retired ABCFT member), created a safe space and instilled hope.
And in the wake of the Iraq War, Mr. Bryan Glonchak (formerly Whitney High School and current ABCFT brother) broadened my horizons through Spanish language and culture.
Mrs. Joanne Charmack (Whitney High School and retired ABCFT member) ignited my passion for political science and civic engagement in my AP Government class.
Finally, it was Mrs. Patricia King (Wittmann Elementary School and retired ABCFT member) that raised me to always choose light, love, and empathy. To have faith that everything works together for our good, even if we can’t see the good in the situation right now.
These educators, and countless others, have shown me the power of empathy, understanding, and hope. They taught me that even in the darkest of times, we can find light and make a difference.
We do not know what the future holds for public education, but I do know that as long as we have classrooms open, there are opportunities for us to create joy for ourselves, for our colleagues, and for our scholars. Let's create classrooms where every child feels valued, respected, and empowered. Together, we can build a brighter future, one student at a time
ABCFT PRESIDENT’S REPORT - Ray Gaer
Consistent and regular communication is a union’s most important tool for advocating for its members at the bargaining table. Every conversation with members is focused on the result of negotiating for the future prosperity and well-being of ALL ABCFT members. This weekly report informs members about issues impacting their working/learning conditions and mental well-being. Our work as a Union is a larger conversation and united, we make the YOUnion.
Click the picture below for this week’s video President’s Report
In YOUnity,
Ray Gaer
President, ABCFT
CALIFORNIA FEDERATION OF TEACHERS
Dear CFT Members,
Many of you are back on campus today after the national election yesterday. First of all, thank you for voting and for all that you did to advocate for candidates and issues up and down the ballot. I am so proud of the work that so many CFT members have done during this election season.
We are all feeling so many different emotions right now, and every single one of those feelings are more than understandable. I also know that the political pundits and researchers will be analyzing the election results for weeks and months to come.
While we believe in democracy and will accept the outcome of the votes for the presidency, we will also be vigilant to ensure every vote is counted in all of the races from Congress to local school board elections. Over the next few days and weeks we will know much more on many of the other election outcomes, and we believe that we will see success at the local and state level because of our collective work.
In the coming years, we can be certain that many of the institutions and rights that we hold dear will be under attack. Public education, collective bargaining rights, and many of our individual rights will be targets of the new administration in January.
But as unionists and as educators we will continue to advocate for what we believe in through the organizing work that we do. Together, we will defend our constitutional right to collective action. Together, we will fight for our right to self determination. Together, we will protect public education that is the basis for our democratic society. And together with our union siblings in the labor movement, we will fight to improve our communities and our country, even when the odds may be stacked against us.
We are stronger together, so thank you for what you do every day and for being a part of the CFT family.
In Unity,
Jeff Freitas
CFT President
The latest CFT articles and news stories can be found here on the PreK12 news feed on the CFT.org website.
AMERICAN FEDERATION OF TEACHERS
WASHINGTON—AFT President Randi Weingarten issued the following statement on the outcome of the 2024 election:
“The voters have spoken. While we hoped and fought for a different outcome, we respect both their will and the peaceful transfer of power.
“At this moment, the country is more divided than ever, and our democracy is in jeopardy. Last night, we saw fear and anger win.
“Over the next few weeks, there will be a lot of ‘could have, should have, would have.’ But the bottom line for most people who voted—and we saw many of them as we crisscrossed the country—was ‘who will help us improve our lives, the lives of our families and our communities?’
“We believed it was Kamala Harris; more people believed it was Donald Trump.
“At the same time, our opportunity engines—labor unions and public schools—remain popular and enduring. It means we must fight for the means and agency to secure a better life, and that public education and a growing labor movement are more important than ever. For example, while Trump won Kentucky, the ballot initiative there to destroy public schools lost.
“Many people today are devastated; many are excited. Many wonder whether the arc of the universe does bend to justice; many wonder whether our democratic institutions will hold.
“These are questions that are not knowable today, but I pray we are curious and introspective enough to understand what happened and ask how we unify the country. What binds us as Americans is far more important than what divides us.
“I do know one thing: Educators, healthcare professionals and public employees will be doing everything they can to make a difference in the lives of the people they serve. And our guiding principle will be to continue to do the work to improve people’s lives: to fight for our children’s future and the promise of America.”
Follow AFT President Randi Weingarten: http://twitter.com/rweingarten
----- NEWS STORY HIGHLIGHT-----
----- NATIONAL NEWS -----
USDA to eliminate school meal 'junk fees' for low-income households
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced on Friday that, from the 2027-28 school year, schools will be prohibited from charging "junk fees", the online processing charges that come with purchasing school meals, to low-income families for meals served through the School Breakfast Program and the National School Lunch Program. The policy will lower costs for families with income under 185% of federal poverty guidelines, equal to $57,720 for a family of four, by ensuring they are not burdened by processing fees. “Today’s announcement reflects the President and Vice President’s broader efforts to lower food costs and eliminate junk fees,” said National Economic Advisor Lael Brainard. “The Department of Agriculture’s action applies to the 1 million children who receive reduced priced meals and lays the foundation to eliminate these junk fees for all 30 million children that receive healthy meals at school every day.” “USDA and schools across America share the common goal of nourishing schoolchildren and giving them the fuel they need to learn, grown and thrive,” added Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “While today’s action to eliminate extra fees for lower income households is a major step in the right direction, the most equitable path forward is to offer every child access to healthy school meals at no cost. We will continue to work with Congress to move toward that goal so all kids have the nutrition they need to reach their full potential.” The announcement also includes best practices schools can use to inform families of the payment methods available that do not add fees.
Newcomers boost English learners' success
According to a new RAND study, the influx of new immigrant students in schools positively impacts the academic performance of English learners without hindering their English-speaking peers. The study, published in the October issue of Educational Evaluation and Policy Analysis, analyzed data from 125,500 students in grades 4-8 between the 2015-16 and 2018-19 school years. It found that the number of immigrants in Delaware increased by 53% from 2010 to 2019, leading to “sizable” academic gains among English learners. Researchers suggest that increased resources at schools due to the arrival of newcomers may contribute to these benefits. The study indicates that immigrant students either positively influence their peers, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, or have no adverse effects.
----- STATE NEWS -----
California voters back $10bn bond
Californians have approved Proposition 2, a $10bn initiative aimed at funding construction projects for TK-12 schools and community colleges. A total of 56.8% of voters were in favor of the first state bond for school construction since 2016. Molly Weedn, a spokesperson for the pro-Prop. 2 campaign, stated: “What has been clear is that people support it when they understand what Proposition 2 will do and its impact on schools.” The funding will address urgent needs, including repairs and modernization of aging facilities, with 85% of California classrooms over 25 years old. The bond allocates $1.5bn for community colleges and $8.5bn for TK-12 districts, with a focus on repairs, new construction, and career education facilities. However, concerns remain about equitable distribution, as wealthier districts may benefit more from the funding. John Affeldt of Public Advocates emphasized the need for a fair system that treats all students equitably.
California leads in providing comprehensive sexual education
Research indicates that comprehensive sex education significantly lowers teen birth rates and sexually transmitted infections, enhancing young people's health outcomes. However, the inconsistency in implementation across states leads to disparities in what adolescents learn. Telehealth company Hims conducted a study to identify states with the most thorough sexual health education, focusing on factors such as the number of teachers covering essential topics, professional development opportunities for educators, and the availability of in-school referrals for health services. The findings revealed that states like Rhode Island and California lead in providing comprehensive sexual education, with Connecticut, Kentucky, and North Dakota excelling in teacher training. The study highlights the importance of consistent and quality sexual health education across the nation.
----- DISTRICTS -----
Election results: Close races ahead
The Orange County Registrar of Voters released early results for school board elections across several districts, including Newport-Mesa and Fountain Valley USDs. In Newport-Mesa, incumbent Leah Ersoylu leads in Trustee Area 1 with 50.44% of the vote, while Carol Crane holds a narrow lead in Area 3 with 50.44% as well. In Trustee Area 6, Krista Weigand is ahead with 46.64%. Fountain Valley's Steve Schultz leads with 45.18%, while Gina Clayton-Tarvin leads in Ocean View with 28.14%. In Huntington Beach City, Brian Burley has 50.85% of the vote, and Susan Henry dominates in Huntington Beach Union with 66.54%. In Laguna Beach, Sheri Morgan leads with 23.47%.
----- WORKFORCE ----
Gen Z embraces skilled trades careers
According to a report by Thumbtack, social media is significantly influencing Gen Z's interest in skilled trades, with 55% of Gen Zers considering a career in this field, a 12% increase from the previous year. Notably, 72% of those with a college degree are also drawn to skilled trades. The report highlights that 67% of Gen Zers attribute their interest to social media, with many professionals noting their careers are becoming more "Instagrammable." Mark Hedstrom, co-executive director of Skilled Careers Coalition, emphasized that "for young people to see others like them on social media working with their hands... is both inspiring and eye-opening." Despite the growing interest, only 41% of Gen Z reported access to trade programs in school, limiting their pathways to these lucrative careers. The report suggests that skilled trades offer better economic security compared to traditional college paths, with 80% of parents acknowledging this potential.
Gen Z teachers put passion ahead of pay
Amid a teacher shortage in California, a new generation is stepping up to the challenge. A 2022 UCLA study revealed that one in five teachers might leave the profession due to burnout and low pay. However, students like Katherine Osajima Pope, a graduate from the University of California Santa Cruz, say they are motivated by a desire to effect change in their communities. “Even if that’s one person at a time, or one classroom at a time,” she says. Programs like CalTeach emphasize equity and social justice, attracting students who want to advocate for their students. Chloe Decker, a peer adviser at UC Berkeley, noted an increase in students eager to influence lives positively. Despite acknowledging the challenges of teaching, including low pay, many future educators, like Lindsay Gonor, are drawn to the profession for its potential for creativity and connection. Osajima Pope encapsulates this sentiment, saying: “For me, my job isn’t about the money I make, it’s about what I feel passionate about.”
----- HEALTH & WELLBEING -----
Many California students say they are anxious after election results
Following the recent election, many California students, particularly those from immigrant families, are expressing deep anxiety and fear. Alejandra Lopez, a political science student at Cal Poly Pomona, shared her distress, saying: “I was really distraught. Honestly, I really would have never thought I would see [Donald Trump] having a second term in office.” With an estimated 1m California children having undocumented parents, the stakes are high. Education leaders emphasize the importance of informing students about their rights, especially under California's Assembly Bill 699, which protects immigrant students. Xilonin Cruz-González from Californians Together stressed the need for schools to reach out to immigrant families. The Supreme Court's ruling in Plyler vs. Doe guarantees all children a right to public education, regardless of immigration status.
At NTA Life, we’re here to provide extra peace of mind with individual supplemental benefits that offer tax-free financial support directly to you or your loved ones. Our benefits are designed to go above and beyond your major medical insurance, helping cover things like deductibles, co-pays, and those unexpected expenses that can come up during an illness or injury. We offer the following programs:
- Cancer Coverage
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The best part? Most of our benefits are guaranteed renewable for life, meaning you can keep them even if you switch districts or retire.
We’re so thankful for the strong partnership we have with ABCFT, and we look forward to continuing to support and serve your incredible educators.
If you’d like to learn more, feel free to reach out anytime:
- Leann Blaisdell: 562-822-5004 | leann.blaisdell@horacemann.com
- Shannon Donovan: 714-727-8261 | shannon.donovan@horacemann.com
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