Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/912628
CTA State Council T H E A G E N D A was packed with important topics and tasks, as we face impending challenges in the courts, at the ballot box and in the Capitol. The theme was "Engaging Our Members" — critical for CTA and its allies to continue to be forceful, effective advocates for students and for our profession. Much of the discussion and presentations focused on engaging a new generation of members and involving more educators in CTA's work on social justice and education issues. 1 2 3 4 PRESIDENT HEINS TALKS MEMBERSHIP ENGAGEMENT CTA President Eric Heins made membership engage- ment the focus of his speech, talking about how we all have a role to make sure new members feel welcome and supported. He encouraged delegates to reach out to young educators: " There is no other organization that exists to protect California's children the way we do — in the class- room and far beyond. We have to share that story. We have to let that story catch fire in the hearts, minds and souls of California educators." He encouraged members to keep their head up in these difficult times and not give up! TOP-TWO PRIMARY SYSTEM LEADS TO OCTOBER RECOMMENDATIONS With all statewide offices up for election, and considering how California's top-two election system works, Council decided to get involved in races earlier, especially the race for state superintendent of public instruction, which could be decided in the June primary. The governor 's race could well be decided by then, too. Council recommended Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom for governor, state Sen. Ed Hernandez for lieutenant governor, Assembly Member Tony Thurmond for state superintendent, and incumbent Xavier Becerra for attorney general. There are also state Senate, Assembly, and local school board seats in play. Who wins these races and their views on public education will have a direct impact on students and educators. See CTA's candidate recommen- dations starting on page 43. SUPPORT FOR FIRE SURVIVORS In a tremendous show of support for the more than 100 members and their families who lost their homes in the North Bay fires, Council del- egates and colleagues contributed more than $7,100 in five hours to add to the relief fund. See our story, and how to help, on page 64. BREAST CANCER PRESENTATION The women of the CTA Board of Directors gave a moving presentation on breast cancer awareness, recognizing the courage and spirit of colleagues who had or are battling the disease, calling on all women to arm themselves with knowledge and take quick action if needed, and reminding everyone of the CTA and chapter commu- nities that stand ready to help. From CTA video, left to right: Gayle Bilek, Kendall Vaught, Terri Jackson, Elana Davidson, Leslie Littman. See video at tinyurl.com/CTAbreastcancer. Top takeaways from the October 2017 gathering 60 cta.org CTA & You