KEEPING YOU INFORMED - Negotiations Update By Ruben Mancillas
The ABCFT negotiating team met with the district team on Monday and made significant progress toward a multi-year calendar. The ABCUSD board will have the opportunity to approve a calendar during their next meeting on Tuesday, March 4. The next bargaining session with the district is scheduled for March 10. Last week’s update noted that salary and benefits will be discussed next, followed by master contract language.
Dr. Fraser has introduced the stipend subcommittee as a component of this master contract negotiation. Each site’s leadership team has been asked to give input regarding stipends at their site. This is an opportunity for schools to accurately label the stipends they are currently using and recommend potential changes to the extra pay for extra service schedule.
Please work with your administration to schedule these meetings to determine how to make the stipend schedule best meet the needs of your respective sites.
On Tuesday of this week, we met with our Child Development team members and visited Stowers Elementary. We met at the union office on Tuesday afternoon with our elected delegates to the CFT convention March 14-16. On Wednesday, I met with our VP of Elementary, Megan Mitchell, and our VP at Large, Bryan Valdez, as we worked with our district partners, Dr. Balbuena, Dr. Huh, and Dr. Lozano, on issues related to TK. Our ABCFT Executive Board met on Thursday afternoon for a very productive discussion, followed by the district’s Finance and Audit Committee meeting. This morning, I worked with one of my district partners, Dr. Lozano, for our regularly scheduled PAL meeting.
Ray is traveling this week and should return with the latest insights as to what the education news is on the federal level. In the national discourse, I am frustrated with false narratives that undermine the professionalism of educators. Remember, the point of underfunding and demonizing public education is breaking it and then claiming that the only solution is privatization and turning it into another opportunity for corporate profit. As an English teacher, I wish it were merely satire that an administration that fearmongers about DEI policies then nominates someone to head the Department of Education who has zero education experience herself. Purportedly wanting to lead an agency that your own political allies want to abolish altogether is absurd. But the extreme rhetoric and harsh actions are part of the plan. We cannot allow ourselves to become desensitized to each new attack or choose to disengage ourselves politically because the latest outrage is worse than the last.
Fortunately, in the words of AFT Secretary Treasurer Fedrick Ingram, “AFT is built for this moment.” This is what the strength of collective action is all about. We are not alone. We are standing in solidarity with 1.6 million other members. A positive example of how your national union is engaged in the fight is that on February 24, the United States District Court for the District of Maryland issued a temporary restraining order prohibiting the Department of Education and the Office of Personnel Management from disclosing sensitive personal information to employees affiliated with the Department of Government Efficiency. The AFT is the lead plaintiff in the case.
“This is a significant decision that puts a firewall between actors whom we believe lack the legitimacy and authority to access Americans’ personal data and are using it inappropriately, without any safeguards,” said AFT President Randi Weingarten. “We brought this case to uphold people’s privacy, because when people give their financial and other personal information to the federal government—namely to secure financial aid for their kids to go to college, or to get a student loan—they expect that data to be protected and used for the reasons it was intended, not appropriated for other means.”
The court ruled that the claim from the plaintiffs—including military veterans and unions representing millions of veterans, teachers, scientists, engineers and federal employees—would likely be successful. The plaintiffs argue that the Education Department and OPM violated the Privacy Act by granting DOGE affiliates unauthorized access to systems containing sensitive personal information, including Social Security numbers, bank account information, health records and other private data.
ABCFT strives to balance such national issues and concerns closer to our local. As has been noted before, elections have consequences. Thanks in part to efforts of our COPE committee, our school board has presented a welcome contrast to the engineered chaos at the federal level. ABCUSD has exhibited calming leadership and a commitment to protecting our students amidst uncertain times. We will continue to update you on federal or state changes and the implications for us here.
In Unity,
AFT-March 4-Protect Our Kids-Day of Action - Show Your Support For ABC Schools and For Public Education
WEAR RED FOR EDUCATION
On Tuesday, March 4, educators (both certificated and classified), students, parents, and community allies will oppose assaults on public education and on opportunity for America’s youth. We are calling on lawmakers to strengthen, not undermine, our local public schools and the services they provide to children, families, and communities.
For more information follow this link@ https://www.aft.org/ProtectOurKids
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.
I’m in Washington, D.C., this week at the annual meeting of the ECK12 Policy and Program Committee (PPC), where I am a West Coast representative for California. I have been a part of this “think tank” committee since 2012, and I am thankful to have the opportunity to represent not only the state of California but also elevate the voices and insights of the ABC Federation of Teachers at a national level. I’m limited on time, but for those of you who have been with me in a meeting, I can’t just sit there, so I doodle and make memes of what I hear. I came to Washington, DC, to hear from the national leaders, and I want you to hear their message of strength, hope, and inspiration.
Click Here for this week's video President's Report
In YOUnity,
Ray Gaer
President, ABCFT
AMERICAN FEDERATION OF TEACHERS
Follow AFT President Randi Weingarten: http://twitter.com/rweingarten
----- NEWS STORY HIGHLIGHT-----
AFT challenges Trump’s school funding policy
The American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and the American Sociological Association have filed a lawsuit in Maryland to challenge a Trump administration policy that threatens to withhold federal funds from schools teaching about systemic racism and diversity topics. The lawsuit argues that the directive, outlined in a February 14 memo from the U.S. Department of Education, is unconstitutional and detrimental to students' education. “The overbreadth and vagueness of the law, and the content-based restrictions it places on speech and expression, will force plaintiffs’ members to choose between chilling their constitutionally protected speech and association or risk losing federal funds and being subject to prosecution,” the AFT wrote in its complaint. With only days left before the department’s purported Friday deadline, the lawsuit seeks to shut down the policy shift entirely before it takes effect.
Courthouse News Service. Reuters. Washington Post
----- NATIONAL NEWS -----
Education leaders tackle new White House directives
School district leaders are grappling with a wave of executive orders from President Donald Trump and directives from the U.S. Department of Education, creating a climate of uncertainty. Sharon Desmoulin-Kherat, superintendent in Peoria, Illinois, likened the situation to the chaos experienced during COVID-19, stating, “We were able to survive COVID so … I think we can do it.” The orders, which include changes to Title IX regulations and directives against race-based programming, have left districts questioning their compliance and financial stability. Many leaders are now relying on legal counsel to navigate these complexities, with Sonja Trainor, executive director of the National School Attorneys Association, emphasizing the need for strong relationships with in-house attorneys. As they manage these challenges, superintendents are also focusing on clear communication with families to maintain trust and stability in their communities.
Federal funding at risk for schools
The U.S. Department of Education has raised alarms among school leaders by threatening to cut federal funding for schools and colleges that do not eliminate “diversity, equity and inclusion” programs. President Donald Trump has also indicated potential funding cuts for states allowing transgender students to participate in sports aligned with their gender identity. In California, K-12 schools received approximately $8bn in federal funding for the 2024-25 fiscal year, which constitutes about 6% of total funding. Elizabeth Sanders, a spokesperson for the California Department of Education, stated: “Federal education funds are appropriations made by Congress and would need to be changed by Congress, not by an executive order.” The potential cuts could significantly impact various educational programs, especially in rural districts where federal funding is a larger portion of their budgets.
Financial aid for undocumented students at risk
Nearly half of U.S. states provide financial assistance or in-state tuition for undocumented students, according to the Higher Ed Immigration Portal from the Presidents' Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration. However, recent federal immigration policy changes have led to states like Florida rescinding these benefits, potentially increasing tuition costs for undocumented students significantly. Gaby Pacheco, president and CEO of TheDream.US, emphasized that "cost is the biggest barrier for immigrant students seeking to attend a college or university." As educators guide undocumented students, they are encouraged to explore scholarships and alternative pathways to higher education, especially in states with restrictive policies.
School Medicaid funds face uncertain future
School advocacy groups, including the Association of School Business Officials International, are warning congressional leaders that cuts to Medicaid would jeopardize school-based healthcare for students who have disabilities and who come from low-income families. In a letter last week to House and Senate leaders, 65 organizations expressed concern about funding cuts to school-based Medicaid services that include health and mental health services provided by professionals like speech-language pathologists and school psychologists. On Tuesday, as the House passed a budget blueprint that directs the House Energy and Commerce Committee, which oversees Medicaid and Medicare, to find $880bn in spending cuts, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) claimed there is significant fraud, waste and abuse in the Medicaid system, making it “hugely problematic.” However, the advocacy groups argue, “School-based Medicaid programs serve as a lifeline to children who can’t access critical health care and health services outside of their school." In Washington state, of the more than 13,000 young children enrolled in Head Start early learning programs, 12,868 receive Medicaid services, said Joel Ryan, executive director of the Washington State Association of Head Start and Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program. He added that any cuts will have "a real impact on some of the youngest, most vulnerable kids across our country.”
----- STATE NEWS -----
California's Black students struggling to meet goals
A new report, Black Minds Matter 2025, reveals that Black students in California continue to face significant educational challenges, with chronic absenteeism and suspension rates remaining largely unchanged over the past decade. Melissa Valenzuela-Stookey, director of research at Education Trust-West, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “This report really meets the moment that we’re in when we’re seeing so many cuts to education funding.” The report highlights that while suspension rates for Black students have decreased from 14% to 9%, they are still three times higher than their white peers. Additionally, only 18% of Black students are at grade level in math, the lowest among all student groups. Valenzuela-Stookey noted the importance of recognizing the systemic issues affecting these students, stating, “There are students and families and communities behind every single data point.” The report calls for fundamental changes to address these persistent inequities.
----- DISTRICTS -----
San Francisco schools face massive layoffs
San Francisco USD has issued 837 preliminary layoff notices affecting teachers, counselors, social workers, and other staff as part of a plan to cut $113.8 million from the upcoming budget. Superintendent Maria Su expressed the emotional toll of the layoffs, stating, “This is a really painful process. I do recognize these are humans. These are people.” The school board is set to vote on these layoffs, with nearly 150 administrative layoffs already approved. The district anticipates losing just under 10% of its teachers, social workers, and counselors, along with 9% of its teacher aides. Meredith Dodson, executive director of the San Francisco Parent Coalition, remarked, “The cuts are shocking, even though we knew they were coming.”
Pasadena USD to vote on layoffs
The Pasadena USD Board of Education is set to vote on cutting around 150 full-time positions, including 115 teachers, on February 27. Jonathan Gardner, President of United Teachers of Pasadena, expressed concern, stating, “Many of the very teachers who have had their homes burned will also be subject to a layoff notice very soon.” The layoffs are a response to declining enrollment and rising costs, as highlighted by Superintendent Elizabeth Blanco and Chief Business Officer Saman Bravo-Karimi. The board meeting will address these proposed layoffs, with preliminary cuts due by March 15 and final decisions by May 15.
Oakland Educators demand alternatives to cuts
The Oakland Education Association, along with parents, is urging the district to reconsider proposed budget cuts that could lead to educator layoffs and program reductions. During a press conference, union president Kampala Taiz-Rancifer emphasized the need to "explore alternatives that keep cuts away from our classrooms." The district's financial mismanagement has resulted in a $95 million deficit, prompting discussions at the upcoming board meeting. Parent and educator Myeisha Jones expressed concern over the impact of layoffs on already short-staffed schools, stating, "my child isn’t getting all the support he needs." The community is particularly worried about cuts affecting special education and support for vulnerable students, as highlighted by parent and teacher Sarah Holderfield, who noted that these students would face reduced learning time and support.
----- TECHNOLOGY -----
Supreme Court safeguards E-rate discounts
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled unanimously on Friday that the federal E-rate program that funds internet connections in education is subject to a major anti-fraud statute, the False Claims Act (FCA), potentially bolstering schools that have been allegedly overcharged by telecommunications companies. Whistleblower Todd Heath alleged in 2008 that telecommunications provider Wisconsin Bell overcharged schools and libraries by not offering them discounted rates required under the E-rate program and submitting reimbursement requests for higher amounts than E-rate should have paid. The FCA allows civilians to bring lawsuits against companies on behalf of the government when federal money is at stake. Writing for the court in Wisconsin Bell Inc. v. United States ex rel. Heath, Justice Elena Kagan rejected Wisconsin Bell’s arguments because the government provided part of the funds that schools and libraries applied for. “In the years in which those requests were made, the Government transferred more than $100m from the Treasury into the pool of funds used to pay E-Rate subsidies. That is enough to create a ‘claim’ under the Act, and to allow a suit alleging fraud to go forward,” she wrote. The Schools, Health and Libraries Broadband Coalition hailed the ruling, which sends the case back to the 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. “By clarifying the applicability of the False Claims Act to E-rate reimbursements, the Court helps ensure that schools and libraries are able to obtain prices that are no higher than the rates charged to similarly situated customers. This ruling helps improve the efficiency of the Universal Service Fund and the E-Rate program," commented executive director John Windhausen.
Education Week News. K-12 Dive. Law.com
----- CLASSROOM -----
Educators discuss the future of teaching
The teaching profession is facing significant challenges, with a decline in new educators entering the field. Janet Renee Damon, a history teacher at DELTA High School, expressed concern over the loss of experienced teachers during the pandemic, stating, "I worried about the collective wisdom that was walking out of the door." Educators like Mikaela Saelua and Ashlie Crosson highlighted the impact of technology and the need for teachers to adapt to new tools like artificial intelligence. They emphasized the importance of preparing students for a globalized society while managing classroom stress. Crosson noted, "It's time to put your big-girl or big-boy boots on, because it is a challenging profession." The educators called for better support from school administrators, urging them to listen to teachers' insights to improve the educational environment.
----- LEGAL -----
Google lawsuit
A U.S. educational technology company has filed a lawsuit against Alphabet's Google, arguing that the company is eroding demand for original content and undermining publishers' ability to compete with its artificial intelligence-generated overviews. Chegg, which offers textbook rentals, homework help, and tutoring, says that Google is co-opting publishers' content in order to keep users on its own site, thus erasing financial incentives to publish, and creating a "hollowed-out information ecosystem of little use and unworthy of trust." "Our lawsuit is about more than Chegg – it's about the digital publishing industry, the future of internet search, and about students losing access to quality, step-by-step learning in favor of low-quality, unverified AI summaries," said Chegg chief executive Nathan Schultz. In response, Google spokesperson Jose Castaneda described the claims as meritless.
----- HEALTH & WELLBEING -----
Students today: less independent than ever?
Most educators believe that students today are less independent than they were a decade ago, which could negatively impact their academic success and employability. According to a survey by the EdWeek Research Center, 82% of teachers reported a decline in student independence, compared to 68% of school leaders and 55% of district leaders. A middle school science teacher from Washington state noted, “I make a point of teaching students to be more independent and self-driven,” highlighting the challenges posed by parental expectations. Factors contributing to this decline include the pandemic's impact on social-emotional development and increased screen time, which limits opportunities for problem-solving. Experts suggest that fostering independence through goal-setting and giving students more control in their education can help. David Adams, chief executive of the Urban Assembly, emphasized, “When we're talking about independence, we're trying to teach students what learning feels like.”
----- HIGHER EDUCATION -----
Florida Gov. DeSantis launches university audits
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has initiated audits of state universities and colleges as part of a broader effort dubbed the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). He stated that these institutions will undergo an independent review to assess their operational efficiency and financial effectiveness. “This is the DOGE-ing of our state university system,” DeSantis remarked, emphasizing the goal of benefiting taxpayers and students alike. The audits will scrutinize various aspects of university operations, including course offerings and staffing, to ensure students receive relevant education for employment. Education Commissioner Manny Diaz Jr. echoed this sentiment, focusing on student outcomes and workforce needs. However, the initiative has faced criticism from Democratic leaders and advocacy groups, who argue it is a political maneuver rather than a genuine effort to improve education. The state is also studying the return on investment for specific programs, with reports expected soon.
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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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