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| Frances Copeland |
Three CTA members received awards at the Equity and Human Rights Conference, held March 28-30 in Irvine. They are Brian Jeffrey, a member of Associated Chafey Teachers; Sherry Poore, a member of the Imperial County Service Center Council; and Frances Copeland, a member of United Teachers Los Angeles.
Brian Jeffrey, winner of the CTA Member Human Rights Award for 2008, was honored for his work at Los Osos High School in Rohnert Park, where he has facilitated, developed and advised more than 19 cultural clubs and multicultural performances. Through “intercommunication,” he unites disparate groups, helping to create a campus of acceptance and awareness.
Acting locally, he has helped draft language for his district’s mission statement and philosophy. For the first time, under his guidance, the school’s philosophy and mission statement embraces student and teacher diversity. He has also lobbied for inclusion of domestic partner rights as part of his chapter’s collective bargaining agreement.
He was also recognized for mentoring his students, encouraging them to share personal stories of struggle and anguish that empower them to create change.
Sherry Poore, who received the CTA Service Center Council Human Rights Award, was honored for her tireless efforts on behalf of the Imperial County Service Center Council and bringing it to the forefront of advocacy for CTA members, students, families and the community.
Having served three terms on State Council, she was a valuable resource to her regional allies.
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| Brian Jeffrey |
As a recruiter, Poore finds hidden talents among the membership, working with them to create the next generation of local and state leadership. Her unflagging involvement with the Service Center Council has resulted in community outreach through various festivals, home shows and children’s fairs.
Francis Copeland, winner of the Lois Tinson Human Rights Award, is known throughout United Teachers Los Angeles for being a tireless worker and for her commitment to empowerment and advocacy for African American students and educators.
Copeland earned her doctoral degree not only for personal satisfaction and for a love of learning, but to serve as a role model and mentor to other African Americans seeking higher education.
Her dissertation presented a reality that many African Americans have a language other than standard English and should be afforded the same privilege to be taught standard English as a second language.
As a tireless advocate, Copeland presents, organizes and raises funds for regional and local events. As a committed educator, she assists students in presentations for her local school board on current issues.
Sherry Posnick-Goodwin
