Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/1505501
"The biggest part about shared decision-making and why it is a strength [is that] no one has to be the most important voice in the room. We draw upon all the knowledge and experiences. So when we add all the voices, including student voices, we hear multiple perspectives and have to really think through what the impact for the student is." —TRACEY MAKINGS, Principal CTA and Community Schools CTA is deeply committed to helping grow and support California's community schools, a partnership with the state, school districts, students, families and communities. Com- munity schools' democratic model of shared decision-making ensures all students' needs are addressed so they can thrive and helps build power with community that leads to a more equitable society. Read more of our coverage of CTA and members' work, and find information and resources, at cta.org/communityschools. Media Spotlight CTA's series of T V, radio and digital ads spotlighting community schools are in full swing during this back-to-school season. They focus on the importance of the shared leadership and decision-mak- ing governance model that gives voice to educators, students, parents and community members. Watch them at youtube.com/@CaliforniaTeachers. CTA President David Goldberg records a community schools spot. 39 A U G U S T / S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 3 " Being part of the subcommittee has given us (students) a voice that we know will be heard and valued for many years" — DANIELA SILVA, Hoover student Daniela Silva graduated from Hoover in June and was a member of its community schools working group subcommittee. She spoke in a Hoover video presentation about how she and other students have been able to witness the many impactful changes at the school in recent years, including the community garden and Hoover Market. Watch the video at tinyurl.com/3fyrkue4.