Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/1400485
Building a Better State for Public Education Since our founding in 1863, CTA has built a legacy of standing together and working for our members, our students, our craft, and the belief that public education is a cornerstone of American democracy. It's these shared values that unite us and make us strong, as 310,000 CTA members from El Centro to Eureka and everywhere in between stand ready to support each other, fight for our students, and defend our schools and community colleges. While we are unified in our mission and voice, our differences are a major part of what makes us stronger together. Though we are diverse in so many ways, we share an important focus: Advocating for our students, schools and communities. Ensuring that there is a place for everyone in CTA is a value that requires a solid founda- tion and structure built to be inclusive and equitable, so that every member is seen and heard. 158 Years of Advocacy... a small sampling CTA is founded by Superintendent of Public Instruction John Swett with fewer than 100 members, all male. CTA's first legislative win establishes free public schools for all California children — including schools for students of color. CTA wins state Supreme Court ruling on "fair dismissal" law. CTA leads state funding fight to establish community colleges. At CTA's urging, free textbooks are printed and distributed at state expense. California State Teachers' Retirement System is created by legislation after CTA State Council calls for a statewide teacher pension system in 1910. CTA wins legal victory when state Supreme Court rules that a school board cannot fire a female teacher simply because she married. Guided by our values and powered by our sol- idarity, CTA continues our mission for even greater successes in the years ahead. We will continue to fight for seats at the table in our local communities and the State Capitol, to let our voices be heard, and to work with elected officials who believe in our vision for strong, vibrant public schools that serve all students. When CTA stands tall for a brighter tomorrow, there's nothing that can stop us. Because together, We Are CTA. Learn more about our issues at cta.org/ TakeAction. 1863 1866 1890 1911 1913 1927 Advocating For Education FROM THE STREETS OF OUR COMMUNITIES TO THE STEPS OF THE STATE CAPITOL, EDUCATORS ACROSS CALIFORNIA HAVE STOOD TOGETHER FOR THE RIGHT OF EVERY STUDENT TO A QUALITY PUBLIC EDUCATION. 6 M E M B E R S H I P M A N U A L