MARCH: Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
In the 2023–24 school year, approximately 14% of California's public school students received special education services,
according to statewide enrollment data. With the right supports, these students can be included in and contribute to all
areas of school and community life. Read CTA's position on education for those with developmental disabilities at
cta.org/our-advocacy/special-education.
I N 2 0 2 6 the Association for the Study of African Amer-
ican Life and History, which founded Black History
Month, marks "A Century of Black History Commemo-
rations." In addition, the Black Lives Matter at School
movement focuses on sparking critical reflection,
honest conversation and impactful actions around
issues of racial justice in school communities through
its Week of Action in early February, Year of Purpose
and Lifetime of Practice.
BLM@School urges everyone to participate in ongoing actions
and reflection. Educators, for example, can reflect on their own work in
relationship to antiracist pedagogy and abolitionist practice, challenging
themselves to center Black lives in their classrooms. For resources, ideas
and curriculum guides, visit nea.org/blacklivesmatteratschool and
blacklivesmatteratschool.com.
National Women's
History Month
Women's History Month began in 1978
in Santa Rosa, initiated by the county
Commission on the Status of Women
to address the lack of women in K-12
curricula. This year the theme is "Lead-
ing the Change: Women Shaping a
Sustainable Future" — honoring women
who reimagine and rebuild systems
to ensure long-term environmental,
economic, educational and societal
sustainability. International Women's
Day is on March 8 and calls attention to
pressing issues such as gender parity.
Educators: Check out NEA's
resources including "50 Years
of Women's Labor History "
(nea.org/womenshistory),
and classroom lesson plans at
womenshistory.org. And join
educators from around the state at
CTA's inaugural Women's Leadership
Conference, April 10–12 in San Diego;
cta.org/event/26wlc.
March 8
www.internationalwomensday.com
Black Lives Matter
at School
FEBRUARY:
Black History Month
7 W I N T E R 2 0 26
In the Know
