Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/1035650
SARAH KIRBY- GONZALEZ Folsom-Cordova Education Association; 14-year public school teacher currently teaching 5th grade in Rancho Cordova. What: Candidate for reelection to the Wash- ington Unified School District school board in West Sacramento. Why: She initially won in a special election against a corporate charter school association candidate. "An employee of [charter school advocate] Michelle Rhee was running. I thought, 'Wait — I don't want my daughter in a district with people at the helm who don't believe in public education.' Often as teachers, and women, we don't see our- selves in the leadership role. Sometimes when we look around we realize, 'I am the most quali- fied person to run.' " Teachers who are immersed in childrens' education every day should have a voice in poli- cy-making. I'm the only teacher serving on the board. When I came on the board, NCLB was ending and everything was test- driven. Now, we're looking at the needs of the whole child. My goal now is to continue to improve aca- demic and social supports for students. "Being a board member has allowed me to make my voice heard. I have all these roles, relationships and con- tacts where I can advocate for my district and public education. It's hard for a teacher to break into all that." How: " The most important thing is having a targeted list of registered, likely voters and going door-to-door to meet them. Making personal connec- tions is key. "My local's members are the real reason I won. I walked with my daugh- ter and worked really hard, [but] if even 10 others walk, it magnifies the impact you can have. Sometimes our union may take the heat for [being involved in elections or canvassing neighborhoods], but people respect teachers and they are the best people to tell your story. Having their support is a huge honor." " Often as teachers, and women, we don't see ourselves in the leadership role. Sometimes when we look around we realize, 'I am the most qualified person to run.'" BRIAN WHEATLEY Evergreen Teachers Association; ETA president. Currently Teacher on Special Assignment; taught grades 5-6 since starting as a teacher in 1985. What: Candidate for San José Unified School District Trustee, Area 4; first political campaign. Endorsed by ETA. Why: "My decades of experience as a classroom teacher provides me with a student-centered approach when dealing with district-wide issues. In addition, my 10 years as ETA president has given me the opportunity to advocate for my colleagues and interact with the variety of community groups focused on the needs of working people. "Additionally, because of my physical handicap, I have a unique perspective that provides a sensitivity and awareness that has helped me connect with students, in and out of the classroom." How: "ETA has endorsed my campaign, and individual teachers have been very supportive and participated in various events, including fundraising. [Neighboring local] San Jose Teachers Association chose to do a dual endorsement with the appointee currently occupying the seat since March." 35 O C T O B E R / N O V E M B E R 2 018 Kirby-Gonzalez