Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/1234752
E D U C A T O R S A R E C R E A T I V E problem-solvers. When asked to minimize adverse impacts on their students, they focus their creative energy on finding swift solutions. Nowhere has this been more evident than in the COVID-19 pandemic, where educators, faced with the sudden closure of their schools, rushed to find alternative ways to connect with their students and continue teaching. "Like everyone in education, we persevere," said Ashley Wallace in an NEA Today story, speaking of the quick pivot she and other Oakland educators did in a matter of hours when their schools were shut- ting down. e Oakland Education Association member worked with colleagues to make sure students had access to food and tech- nology, and called families to tell them what was happening and what to do in case of illness or other problems — no small feat in a multicultural commu- nity where English is often not the primary language spoken at home. CTA President E. Toby Boyd praises the fortitude and selflessness of members. "Educators throughout the state, who are balancing the impact of COVID- 19 on their own lives and families, continue to act, educate and advocate for their students during this crisis." He wants members to know that the union "Educators throughout the state, who are balancing the impact of COVID-19 on their own lives and families, continue to act, educate and advocate for their students during this crisis." —CTA President E. Toby Boyd Shared in CTA's Facebook group "Teaching, Learning & Life During COVID-19": Kindergarten teacher Sara Shepich in an Oakland Education Association video that features several members talking to students and families about the importance of health and safety during this time. OEA produced these videos in several languages. San Diego Education Association member and CTA Caucus for Educators of Exceptional Children chair Meghann Hughes let colleagues know about resources for students with special needs. Teaching During a Global Crisis COVID-19 can't stop educators' work with students By Ed Sibby 12 cta.org Ashley Wallace special report