Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/1530930
Compiled by Julian Peeples Quotes & Numbers 7.5 million Number of students nationwide protected by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), about 15% of the student population. Enacted in 1975, IDEA proposed that federal funding cover up to 40% of the cost of programming for students with IEPs. In fact, federal funding covers 14.7%, creating a shortage in the billions. 34 States (and the District of Columbia) where students now have access to a tuition-free community college education. 500,000 Number of doors knocked by CTA members statewide during the 2024 election campaign (see page 30). 5,457 Number of art teachers needed to be hired by districts to meet demand at California public schools, according to a report commissioned by the Hewlett Foundation's Performing Arts Program. " Community colleges are no longer America's best-kept secret. ... We're on our way to making them America's best-kept promise." — First Lady Jill Biden, community college professor (and NEA member), on the Biden Administration's focus on investing in community colleges " In times when I need hope, I think about the students I've visited in classrooms across the country and the teachers that care about them. That's where hope and our future lives." — Secretary of Education Dr. Miguel Cardona, on social media " We are prepared to stand up against any attacks on our students, public education, workers' rights and our broader communities that may come. We're committed to fight for the future we all deserve." — CTA President David Goldberg, on the day after the 2024 Presidential Election " It is the job of every teacher, school board member, principal and elected representative in the state of California who believes in public education: It is time for us to stand up to protect all of these kids. When we are facing a bully who is targeting our most vulnerable students, we all need to stand up." — Assemblymember Al Muratsuchi, D-Torrance, in November in response to news that the incoming presidential administration would eliminate the U.S. Department of Education 13 J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 5 I