June/July 2024
Independence Day
Before students head off for summer break, remind them that July 4 is not just about picnics and fireworks. A good way is through age-appropriate reading and discussion of civics and historical figures and events connected to the formation of the United States. Try Scholastic’s “13 Must-Read Books to Celebrate the Fourth of July,” which includes suggested reads for grades K–12; scholastic.com.
Conference on Racial & Social Justice
JUNE 30–JULY 2 CONFERENCE
Philadelphia, PA. “Promote. Protect. Strengthen. Public Education: The Foundation of our Democracy!” Educators, creatives, activists, organizers and other leaders will advance racial and social justice for our schools through the power of our stories and organize for our future. nea.org/events
2024 NEA RA
JULY 4–7 CONVENTION
Philadelphia, PA. The world’s largest democratic, deliberative body, by educators, for educators. Each summer approximately 6,000 educators — including CTA members — meet to debate vital issues that impact American public education and set NEA policy and activities for the year ahead. These delegates represent the 3 million members of the NEA. nea.org/ra
Human and Civil Rights Awards
JULY 3 EVENT
Philadelphia, PA. Since 1967 NEA has honored human and civil rights heroes at an annual celebration; the event is linked to NEA’s 1966 merger with the American Teachers Association, which represented Black teachers in segregated schools. The awards honor individuals and organizations who have expanded educational opportunities for students who have been traditionally marginalized, and those who have advanced and expanded human and civil rights in their communities. This year’s theme is “Freedom Rings: Celebrating the Legacy of Inspiring Power, Dreams and Activism.” Awardees include United Teachers Los Angeles for being “a powerhouse of activism, advocacy and social justice.” nea.org
Presidents Conference
JULY 18–21 CONFERENCE
Hyatt Regency Orange County. Join CTA for a conference designed to enhance your skills as a local president and help build systems of success for your local chapter. Provides new and returning chapter presidents a foundation to rely upon as we prepare for future challenges. cta.org/conferences
Other Professional Development Opportunities
ISTE Live 24 JUNE 23–26
Denver. The International Society for Technology in Education holds ISTE Live 24. The virtual conference offers
hundreds of presentations and learning experiences by educators and other innovators, and on-demand content that is available for six months afterward. conference.iste.org/2024
CA LMI Summer Institute
JUNE 24–26 San Diego. The California Labor Management Initiative institute convenes labor-management teams to energize partnerships, build community and navigate the upcoming year. cdefoundation.org/cde_programs/clmi
QTEL Summer Institutes
JULY 15–19 Santa Cruz. WestEd’s Quality Teaching for English Learners team offers professional development
supporting education for English learners. qtel.wested.org/2024-qtel-summer-institutes
California MTSS Professional Learning Institute
JULY 16–18 Anaheim. The theme of this year’s California MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Support) conference is “Inspire, Innovate and Thrive.” Educators, administrators, school counselors and psychologists, county offices of education leaders, and community-based organizations come together to support inclusive and equitable learning environments. ocde.us/MTSS/Pages/Overview.aspx
CTA Summer Institute
JULY 24–28
The Westin Bonaventure Los Angeles. CTA’s premier training offers sessions and activities to hone the skills needed to meet the challenges of the coming year — in both education and labor. CTA’s Summer Institute offers 10 full-week trainings at the Westin Bonaventure in downtown Los Angeles. The various strands assist chapter leaders in the day-to-day representation and support of members, and include:
• Organizing and Building Worksite Power to Win!
• Charter Educators
• Communications
• Economic Justice
• Emerging Leaders
• Essential Bargaining Skills
• Instruction and Professional Development (IPD)
• Member Benefits
• Political Academy
• School Finance
Find details at
cta.org/conferences.
Questions? Contact
SummerInstitute@cta.org
April/May 2024
California Educators United for Our Students
Join CTA in celebrating some very special days in May. Our 2024 theme: California Educators United for Our Students. The California Day of the Teacher and National School Nurse Day are on May 8. CTA Education Support Professionals Day is on May 21. Show your appreciation for all that educators do at your school and in your community. For ways to demonstrate your support and for your own pull-out poster, see the back of this issue, or go to cta.org/dayoftheteacher.
Earth Day, April 22
Students can learn and bring awareness to the state of our earth on Earth Day – and every day – through environmental education and action. This year the focus is on eliminating plastic usage, with a goal to decrease plastic production by 60% by 2040 through shopping sustainably, voting, participating in cleanups and practicing climate literacy. Examples: Students can help phase out all single-use plastics, push for a strong United Nations Treaty on Plastic Pollution, and demand an end to fast fashion. Find resources, lesson plans, cleanups near you and more at earthday.org.
International Workers Day, May 1
May 1 is International Workers’ Day, also known as May Day or Labour Day. It began as a commemoration of the 1886 Haymarket Riot in Chicago and is officially recognized in much of the world – but not in the United States. The famed poster by Ricardo Levins Morales reminds us of what the Labor Movement has achieved.
LGBTQ+ Safety in Schools Grants and Scholarships
CTA’s LGBTQ+ Safety in Schools Grant and Scholarship Program in Honor of Guy DeRosa was created to promote human and civil rights by making our public schools safe for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer/questioning+ persons. (CTA member Guy DeRosa was a lifelong advocate for civil and human rights and LGBTQ+ issues.)
- The grant program supports groups, projects and presentations that promote understanding of and respect for LGBTQ+ persons. Grants are used directly with students. Special consideration is given to projects that recognize, promote and celebrate ethnic diversity and other diversity among LGBTQ+ youth.
- The scholarship program supports self-identified LGBTQ+ members enrolled in a teacher/counseling credential or graduate program who are pursuing a career in public education and who understand the importance of LGBTQ+ educators as role models in our public schools.
Active of CTA/CTA-Aspiring Educators, or public school students sponsored by an active CTA/CTA-AE member, are eligible to apply. Award amounts are up to $2,500. Apply now! Deadline is May 31.
CCA Spring Conference
April 26–28
Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa The Community College Association’s spring conference highlights membership and features the presentation of CCA’s WHO (We Honor Ours) Awards, which recognize CCA local and state union leaders.
NEA Foundation Grants
May 1 Application Deadline
NEA Foundation gives grants in amounts up to $5,000 for educators to enhance the classroom experience and boost your skills:
- Envision Equity Grants – test new ideas and innovations while advancing students’ cultural understanding and understanding of civic engagement and democracy.
- Student Success Grants – develop and implement projects to enhance students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills, communication and collaboration skills, etc.
- Learning & Leadership Grants – participate in professional development such as summer institutes, conferences, seminars, travel abroad programs, or action research.
CTA Communications Awards
May 3 Nomination Deadline
The Communications Awards Program recognizes and honors CTA chapters, service centers and UniServs that communicate effectively with their members.
National Teacher Day
May 7 Event
National Teacher Day is on Tuesday of National Teacher Appreciation Week (May 6-10).
>> nea.org/TAW
ISTE Live 24
June 23-26 Conference
Denver The International Society for Technology in Education holds ISTE Live 24. The virtual conference offers hundreds of presentations and learning experiences by educators and other innovators, and on-demand content that is available for six months afterward.
CA LMI Summer Institute
June 24-26
San Diego The California Labor Management Initiative Summer Institute brings together labor-management teams to energize partnerships, build community, and navigate the upcoming year together.
PBL World 2024
June 24-27 Conference
Napa Valley “Igniting Joy Through PBL.” PBL World, sponsored by the nonprofit Buck Institute for Education, is the premier conference for Project Based Learning.
>> pblworld.org
July 3-7 Convention
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania The world’s largest democratic, deliberative body, by educators, for educators. Each summer approximately 6,000 educators – including CTA members – meet to debate vital issues that impact American public education and set NEA policy and activities for the year ahead. These delegates represent the 3 million members of the NEA.
>> nea.org/ra
Presidents Conference
July 18-21
Hyatt Regency/Garden Grove
Join CTA for a conference designed to enhance your skills as a local president and help build systems of success for your local chapter. Provides new and returning chapter presidents a foundation to rely upon as we prepare for future challenges.
CTA Summer Institute
July 24-28
Westin Bonaventure, Los Angeles CTA’s premier training offers sessions in areas that assist chapter leaders in the day-to-day representation and support of members. Sessions may include “tracks” such as Communications, Instruction and Professional Development, Emerging Leaders, Bargaining, School Finance, Member Benefits and Community Engagement.
December 2023/January 2024
Happy New Year!
Wishing our CTA family peace, love and joy! Here’s hoping 2024 is a brilliant year for all.
MLK Jr. Day of Service, Jan. 15
Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Mon., Jan. 15, is a federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service, when Americans step up to make communities more equitable and take action to create the Beloved Community of Dr. King’s dream. Encourage students to honor Dr. King’s life of service by volunteering to clean and green local parks, pack and deliver food to home-bound neighbors, and more. Find events and volunteer activities at americorps.gov/newsroom/events/mlk-day. Educators can also design their own day (or semester); find ideas, toolkits and classroom facilitator guides at ysa.org/resources.
The Great Kindness Challenge, Jan. 22-26
Empower students to create a culture of kindness through the weeklong GKC (school edition), a proactive and positive SEL-focused bullying prevention program for grades K-12. GKC’s impact to date: More than 19,000 students at 40,000 schools around the world have participated, resulting in over 950 million acts of kindness! Schools can sign up at thegreatkindnesschallenge.com to find age-appropriate kindness checklists and additional resources.
Good Teaching Conference – North & South
Master new skills and update your expertise at CTA’s Good Teaching Conference – North or South. GTC supports excellent teaching and learning practices for classroom teachers via peer-to-peer instruction – and who better to learn from than fellow educators? In addition to workshops focused on curriculum content areas for K-12 teachers, GTC provides opportunities for professional development and to network and share ideas with colleagues and experts.
GTC-North, Feb. 2-4, Hyatt Regency SFO; GTC-South, Mar. 22-24, Hyatt Regency Orange County. Find more information, registration and a letter you can use to show your principal or district the value of attending GTC at cta.org/conferences. GTC-North booking deadline: Jan. 18. #CTAGTC
CTA State Gold Awards
Jan. 5, 2024 NOMINATION DEADLINE
Given to individuals (including private citizens and public officials) or organizations whose leadership, acts and support have had a positive impact on California public education. Any CTA member may nominate.
CTA Issues Conference
Jan. 12-14, 2024 CONFERENCE
Planet Hollywood Las Vegas, Nevada. Educators from rural, urban and ESP locals throughout the state come together to learn, share, strategize, and unite together to determine the future of public education.
NEA RA State Delegate Candidacy
Jan. 31, 2024 FILING DEADLINE
Candidates for NEA Representative Assembly state delegate must submit a declaration of candidacy by Jan. 31, 2024, at 4 p.m. The 2024 RA will be held July 3-7 in Philadelphia, PA.
CCA Winter Conference
Feb. 2-4, 2024 CONFERENCE
Sheraton, Universal City. The Community College Association’s Winter Conference highlights advocacy in addition to lobbying and contract enforcement issues. It will also offer a bargaining, grievance or advocacy academy, and address legislation relevant to community colleges.
CTA Scholarships
Feb. 9, 2024 APPLICATION DEADLINE
The CTA Scholarship Program offers scholarships up to $3,000 to CTA members; up to $5,000 to dependent children of active members; and up to $5,000 to Student CTA members.
Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarships
Feb. 23, 2024 APPLICATION DEADLINE
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Scholarships up to $6,000 are available to CTA members, their dependents, and Student CTA members who are persons of color and are pursuing a teaching-related career.
CTA/NEA-Retired Issues Conference
Feb. 29-Mar. 1, 2024 CONFERENCE
Westin Bonaventure, Los Angeles. Learn how CTA/NEA-Retired is protecting your future and watching legislation that affects your benefits. Stay connected, be protected, and enjoy great benefits.
Chavez/Huerta Awards I HAVE ART FOR THIS IF NEEDED HERE OR ELSEWHERE ON THE PAGE
March 1, 2024 ENTRY DEADLINE
Cesar E. Chavez and Dolores Huerta Education Awards honor students who show they understand Chavez and Huerta’s guiding principles with a visual art project or written essay. Awards up to $550 go to both the sponsoring CTA member and the student.
October/November 2023
Filipino American History Month
The Filipino American National Historical Society (FANHS; fanhs-national.org) observes Filipino American History Month, in October, with the theme: “1898: Recognizing 125 Years of Philippine-American History.”
The Treaty of Paris, which ended the Spanish American War and led to the U.S. annexation of the Philippines, was signed in 1898. As a result, Filipino migrants were considered U.S. nationals and entered the U.S. during an era when other Asian migrants were prohibited. Many pensionados (Filipino students) attended American universities; some settled here. American curricula and educational systems introduced in the Philippines meant English proficiency among its citizens and recruitment of Filipino nurses, teachers and other professionals to the U.S. Filipinos were also encouraged to enlist in the U.S. military, creating pathways to citizenship for thousands of families.
Today, Filipino Americans are the third-largest Asian American group in the nation, with the vast majority in California. Resources to teach about the Filipino American experience: FANHS; Filipino American Education (filameducation.com); the Bulosan Center for Filipino Studies at UC Davis (bulosancenter.ucdavis.edu).
Breast Cancer Awareness Month
The month promotes screening and prevention of the disease, which affects one in eight women in the United States every year and 2.3 million women worldwide. Campaigns and programs throughout October support people diagnosed with breast cancer, educate people about risk factors, stress the importance of regular screening, and fundraise for research. Oct. 13 is nationally recognized as Metastatic Breast Cancer Awareness Day. In 2021, President Biden designated Oct. 17-23 as Men’s Breast Cancer Awareness Week. Find information at breastcancer.org, breastcancernow.org and komen.org.
National Higher Education Month
Remember the professor who changed your perspective, or the staffer who made you feel safe or at home? October is National Higher Education Month, a time to highlight and celebrate the dedicated and inspiring faculty and staff who help students pursue their American Dream.
CTA Conferences & Notable Events
Unless noted, find registration and details at cta.org/conferences.
CCA Fall Conference
Oct. 13-15 Hyatt Regency SFO, Burlingame. The Community College Association’s fall conference is dedicated to enhancing bargaining skills and coordinating strategies focused on collective bargaining. Includes professional development sessions and CCA’s California Leadership Academy.
Fall CUE Conference
Oct. 21-22 Teachers College of San Joaquin, Stockton. The ed tech conference by CUE (Computer-Using Educators) offers a multitude of sessions and special keynotes. cue.org/events
LGBTQ+ Issues Conference
Oct. 27-29 Margaritaville Resort, Palm Springs. Theme: “The State of the Movement: The Fight for LGBTQ+ Justice in Schools.” The 15th annual gathering is open to all CTA members and provides a venue to discuss a variety of issues affecting educators, students and the community. Sessions will focus on awareness, capacity & skill building, taking action & organizing. Booking deadline: Oct. 13.
Voluntary dues contribution
Nov. 1 Opt-Out Deadline
Voluntary annual contributions by members support CTA Foundation’s grants/scholarships and CTA’s advocacy efforts. New members are automatically enrolled in the default contribution of $15 CTA advocacy efforts and $5 to the CTA Foundation for Teaching and Learning. Members may change their allocation or opt out. New members have 30 days from the date of enrollment; previously enrolled members have a window from Aug. 1 to Nov. 1. cta.org/contribution
New Educator Weekend North
Nov. 3-5 Santa Clara Marriott. For educators in their first three years in the profession, #CTANEW has everything you need to be successful, including sessions on classroom management, creating engaging classrooms, lesson plans and ideas, connecting with your union, student loan forgiveness information, member benefits, project grants and more. (New Educator Weekend South is planned for Feb. 23-25, 2024, Hilton, Orange County.)
Veterans Day
Nov. 11 Honor the wartime service and sacrifice of men and women in the armed forces. Check NEA’s extensive listing of K-12 lessons, activities, games and resources that can help your students celebrate service men and women past and present; nea.org (search Veterans Day).
American Education Week
Nov. 13-17 American Education Week is celebrated the week prior to Thanksgiving week and includes special days to honor parents, education support professionals and substitute educators. Nov. 15 is National ESP Day. nea.org/aew
Transgender Awareness Week
Nov. 13–19 Every year, people and organizations nationwide participate in this week to raise the visibility about transgender people and address issues members of the community face. Transgender Day of Remembrance, Nov. 20, honors the memory of transgender people whose lives were lost in acts of anti-transgender violence. GLSEN.org’s Trans Action Kit has student and educator resources, including lesson plans.
Student CTA Fall Event
Nov. 18-19 CTA headquarters, Burlingame. For details, go to cta.org/scta.
2023 Solidarity Conference
Dec. 8-10 Westin Bonaventure, Los Angeles. Presented by CTA’s four ethnic caucuses, this inaugural year’s theme is “Building power through Culture, Community, and Connections”. The conference will provide participants with more knowledge of issues facing our ethnic minority communities and how to advocate for change.
June/July 2023
Pride Month
Every year in June, the LGBTQ+ community celebrates Pride Month. It’s a great time to include LGBTQ+ themes and history into your curriculum, helping LGBTQ+ students feel safer and more affirmed (see our cover story on page XX). And all your students will benefit from a better understanding of history and the groups within your community.
Ideas include highlighting historical LGBTQ+ leaders, discussing the LGBTQ+ movement and creating an LGBTQ+-affirming display for your classroom or hallway (find posters at cta.org/our-advocacy/social-justice/posters-shareables). Find lesson plans and other resources at welcomingschools.org.
Rainbow Book Month
An initiative of the American Library Association, June is a nationwide celebration of the authors and writings that reflect the lives and experiences of the LGBTQ+ community. Find ALA’s 2023 list of LGBTQIA+ Books for Kids and Teens at bit.ly/3pcEJsh.
Juneteenth
Juneteenth, on June 19, became a federal holiday in 2021. Since the late 1800s, the day has been celebrated by African Americans to mark the end of slavery in the United States after the Civil War.
On June 19, 1865, about two months after the war ended, a Union general arrived in Galveston, Texas, to inform enslaved African Americans of their freedom. His announcement put into effect the Emancipation Proclamation – which President Abraham Lincoln had issued nearly two and a half years earlier.
PBS offers a lesson plan for grades 6-12 on the history of Juneteenth at to.pbs.org/3B6oVKl. Students can also watch the Annenberg Public Policy Center’s “Juneteenth: Exploring Freedom’s Stories” at annenbergclassroom.org/juneteenth-exploring-freedoms-stories.
Hot PD at Summer Institute
The premier training of its kind, CTA’s Summer Institute takes place at UCLA July 23-27 and offers intensive sessions that help chapter leaders in the day-to-day representation of their members. Hands-on activities hone your skills so you can meet the challenges of the coming year. You’ll meet colleagues from around the state – and have fun!
Sign up now for one of 10 full-week trainings of your choice:
Building Worksite Power to Win!
Communications
Community Schools (Invite-Only)
Economic Justice
Emerging Leaders
Essential Bargaining Skills
Fundamental Skills for Bargaining Chairs
Instruction and Professional Development
Member Benefits
School Finance
For details of each training, visit cta.org/event/summer-institute-2023-2. Find the agenda, lodging and activities information, and registration at cta.org/conferences.
CA LMI Summer Institute
June 20-22
San Diego.
The California Labor Management Initiative institute convenes labor-management teams to energize partnerships, build community, and navigate the upcoming year.
2023 NEA RA
July 2-6
Orlando, FL
The 2023 NEA Representative Assembly and the California Teachers Association Caucus, comprising 6,000 delegates from state and local affiliates, meet to debate the vital issues that impact American public education and set NEA policy and activities for the year ahead.
CTA Presidents Conference
July 13-16, 2023
Burlingame
Newly developed interactive sessions designed for new and experienced chapter leaders (presidents, vice presidents or local designees) enhance your skills as a leader and help build systems of success for your chapter. The conference includes dozens of skills-building sessions and offers opportunities to build lasting relationships with other CTA leaders. Send a team: CTA will pay travel costs for one person per chapter.
QTEL Summer Institutes
July 17-21
Santa Cruz
WestEd’s Quality Teaching for English Learners team offers professional development supporting education for English learners.
>> qtel.wested.org/2023-qtel-summer-institutes
California MTSS Professional Learning Institute
July 18-20
Anaheim
The theme of this year’s California MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Support) conference is “Equity in Action: Every Student, Every Day.” Educators, administrators, school counselors and psychologists, county offices of education leaders, and community-based organizations come together to support inclusive and equitable learning environments.
LGBTQ+ Safety in Schools Grants and Scholarships
The LGBTQ+ Safety in Schools Grant and Scholarship Program in Honor of Guy DeRosa was created to promote human and civil rights by making our public schools safe for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer/questioning+ persons. The program was renamed in 2009 in memory of CTA member and educator Guy DeRosa (pictured), who was a lifelong advocate for civil and human rights and LGBTQ+ issues.
- The grant program supports groups, projects and presentations that promote understanding of and respect for LGBTQ+ persons. Grants are used directly with students. Special consideration is given to projects that recognize, promote and celebrate ethnic diversity and other diversity among LGBTQ+ youth.
- The scholarship program supports self-identified LGBTQ+ members enrolled in a teacher/counseling credential or graduate program who are pursuing a career in public education and who understand the importance of LGBTQ+ educators as role models in our public schools.
Active CTA/SCTA members, or public school students sponsored by an active CTA/SCTA member, are eligible to apply. Award amounts are up to $2,500. Apply now! Deadline is May 31. >> cta.org/scholarships
May: Better Hearing & Speech Month
Better Hearing & Speech Month is an opportunity to raise awareness about communication disorders. “It’s a Noisy Planet” offers a teacher toolkit to help educators teach children in grades 2-6 about the causes and prevention of noise-induced hearing loss. The science-based classroom presentation explains what sound is, how sound travels through the ear, how loud sounds can damage hearing over time, and how to protect your hearing. Find it at noisyplanet.nidcd.nih.gov.
June 2: Alice Piper Day
Alice Piper was a 15-year-old Paiute girl residing in Big Pine, Inyo County, who was denied entry to Big Pine High School in 1923 due to her race. (California educational law then prohibited Native Americans from attending a public school if a government-run Indian school was within three miles of the public school.) Piper and six other Indian children sued the district for the right to attend. On June 2, 1924, the California Supreme Court unanimously ruled in her favor in the case Piper v. Big Pine, thus opening the door Native American children to attend public schools in California.
NEA Foundation Grants
April 27 Application Deadline
NEA Foundation gives grants in amounts up to $5,000 for educators to enhance your classroom experience. Find detailed information and applications at the website. Grants include:
- Envision Equity Grants let you test new ideas and innovations while advancing students’ cultural understanding and appreciation and understanding of civic engagement and democracy.
- Student Success Grants let you develop and implement projects to enhance students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills, promote communication and collaboration skills, etc.
- Learning & Leadership Grants help you participate in high-quality professional development like summer institutes, conferences, seminars, travel abroad programs, or action research. >> neafoundation.org
CCA Spring Conference
April 28–30
Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa Hotel.
The Community College Association’s spring conference highlights membership and features the presentation of CCA’s WHO (We Honor Ours) Awards, which recognize CCA local and state union leaders. >> cta.org/conferences
National Teacher Day
May 2 Event
National Teacher Day is on Tuesday of National Teacher Appreciation Week (May 8-12). >> nea.org/TAW
CTA Communications Awards
May 5 Nomination Deadline
The Communications Awards Program recognizes and honors CTA chapters, service centers and UniServs that communicate effectively with their members. >> cta.org/awards
CA LMI Summer Institute
June 20–22 San Diego.
The California Labor Management Initiative Summer Institute brings together labor-management teams to energize partnerships, build community, and navigate the upcoming year together. >> cdefoundation.org/clmi
ISTE Live 23
June 25–28 Conference
The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) holds ISTE Live 23, June 25–28. The virtual conference offers hundreds of presentations and learning experiences by educators and other innovators, and on-demand content that is available to you for six months afterward. Learn more at conference. iste.org/2023.
PBL World 2023
June 26–29 Conference
Napa Valley.
“Sharing Our Stories: Changing the Narrative Through Gold Standard PBL.” PBL World, sponsored by the nonprofit Buck Institute for Education, is the premier conference for Project Based Learning. >> pblworld.org
NEA Representative Assembly
July 2–6 Convention
Orlando, Florida.
The world’s largest democratic, deliberative body, by educators, for educators. Each summer approximately 6,000 educators – including CTA members – meet to debate the vital issues that impact American public education and set National Education Association policy and activities for the year ahead. These delegates represent the 3 million members of the NEA. >> nea.org/ra
Presidents Conference
July 13–16
Join CTA for a conference designed to enhance your skills as a local president and help build systems of success for your local chapter. Provides new and returning chapter presidents a foundation to rely upon as we prepare for future challenges. >> cta.org/conferences
CTA Summer Institute
July 23–27
UCLA, Los Angeles.
CTA’s premier training offers sessions in areas that assist chapter leaders in the day-to-day representation and support of members. More details TBD, but sessions may include “tracks” such as Communications, Instruction and Professional Development, Emerging Leaders, Bargaining, School Finance, Member Benefits and Community Engagement. >> cta.org/conferences
NEA Foundation Awards for Teaching Excellence
MAR. 3 NOMINATION DEADLINE
One CTA member will be chosen to compete for NEA Foundation’s Awards for Teaching Excellence, presented at a gala in Washington, D.C. Five awardees receive $10,000 each; one selected from the five receives $25,000. CTA members and staff may nominate themselves.
cta.org/nea-foundation-awards
Read Across America
MARCH 2 EVENT
Celebrate this annual event by reading with your students! CTA’s California Reads program offers teacher-recommended book selections year-round for students of all ages.
cta.org/californiareads
CTA/NEA-Retired Issues Conference
MARCH 16-17 CONFERENCE
Santa Clara Marriott. Learn how CTA/NEA-Retired is protecting your future and watching legislation that affects your benefits. Stay connected, be protected, and enjoy great benefits.
cta.org/conferences
Chavez/Huerta Awards
MARCH 3 ENTRY DEADLINE
Cesar E. Chavez and Dolores Huerta Education Awards honor students who show they understand Chavez’s guiding principles with a visual art project or written essay. Awards up to $550 go to both the sponsoring CTA member and the student. cta.org/scholarships
Equity and Human Rights Conference
MARCH 17-19 Santa Clara Marriott.
Affirms CTA’s mission to protect the civil rights of all people and secure a more equitable, democratic society. Speakers and workshops give members a greater understanding of diversity, equity and social justice.
cta.org/conferences
NEA National Leadership Summit
MARCH 10-12 CONFERENCE
Moscone Convention Center, San Francisco.
“Joy, Justice, Excellence: The Strength of Educators. The Brilliance of Students. The Power of Community.” To develop activist leaders and prepare them with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead thriving associations.
nea.org/leadershipsummit
Spring CUE
MARCH 16 CONFERENCE
Palm Springs Convention Center.
This educational technology conference by CUE (Computer-Using Educators) offers hundreds of sessions with keynotes from world-renowned educators.
cue.org
Good Teaching Conference South
MARCH 3-5, 2023
Hyatt Regency Orange County, Garden Grove.
Supports excellent teaching practices with a variety of diverse workshops focused on curriculum content areas for K-12 teachers. Bonus pre-conference sessions: “Understanding and Addressing
Challenging Behaviors,” Thurs., March 2, 5:30-7 p.m. (virtual); and “Fill Your Toolbox with CTA/NEA Member Benefits & Resources,” Fri., March 3, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Booking deadline: Feb. 13.
cta.org/conferences
NEA ESP Conference
MARCH 24-26, 2023
Hyatt Regency, Seattle. The nation’s premier professional development opportunity for education support professionals
enhances ESPs’ skills and knowledge.nea.org/espconference
John Swett Awards
MARCH 3 NOMINATION DEADLINE
CTA’s John Swett Awards for Media Excellence recognize media professionals for outstanding coverage of education during 2022, and student journalism. CTA local chapters and Service Center Councils may nominate.
cta.org/awards
EMEID Leadership Program
APRIL 7 APPLICATION DEADLINE
BIPOC members interested in CTA leadership roles may apply online to the Ethnic Minority Early Identification and Development program starting Feb. 17. Applicants will be notified by May 13.
Participants will attend EMEID Orientation and Emerging Leaders Program at CTA’s Summer Institute, July 22-27, 2023. cta.org/emeid
New Educator Weekend North MAR. 10-12 Santa Clara Marriott
New-ish to teaching and want to improve your skills, better manage your classroom and be a more effective educator? CTA’s New Educator Weekend (NEW) is for you!
NEW focuses on what teachers need to know to be successful in the classroom, with sessions focusing on classroom management, lesson plans, assessments, navigating IEPs, special education, behavior management, technology and working with colleagues. You’ll be able to immediately apply what you learn to your classroom and school community.
Registration for CTA members is only $49 for close to two full days of professional development, opportunities to network with other new teachers and access to top educators in the state. Booking deadline is Feb. 23, so hurry!
cta.org/conferences
GET READY to celebrate with your students and school community with a focus on books and the written word, special guest readers and more. Find ideas and resources at nea.org/event-ideas. And yes, reading and literacy are year-round activities. Start with CTA’s 2023 California Reads, teacher-vetted, engaging books for all grade levels — a few are mentioned below. Find them all at cta.org/careads, where members can also find links to buy the books at a 20 percent discount. NEA offers a monthly calendar of recommended
books, authors and teaching resources that promote diversity and inclusion at nea.org/readacrossamerica.
CTA Leadership Training
Are you a CTA member and educator of color? Are you interested in broadening your knowledge of your union and exploring leadership opportunities? Read on!
CTA’s Ethnic Minority Early Identification and Development (EMEID) program identifies Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) CTA members who are interested in expanding their roles in CTA. EMEID’s goal is to increase the number of BIPOC CTA leaders in roles such as president, bargaining chair, State Council
delegate, Service Center Council chair and officers and other positions.
The program builds on existing CTA/NEA programs, trainings, conferences and events and incorporates interaction and coaching with local chapters, CTA and NEA leadership and CTA staff. Participants are paired with a coach who assists them in defining goals and identifying appropriate steps to achieve those goals.
Applications for the 2023-24 EMEID cohort are being accepted now through April 7. Members selected to participate in the program must commit to attend the EMEID Orientation on Sat., July 22, as well as the Emerging Leaders Program at CTA’s Summer Institute held Sun.-Thurs., July 23-27. For more information and a link to the application, visit cta.org/emeid.
Awards for Teaching Excellence
The NEA Foundation Awards for Teaching Excellence recognize, reward and promote both excellence in teaching and advocacy for the profession. Educators who are recognized “impart not just knowledge but love of learning and discovery.” The awards are presented jointly by the National Education Association (NEA) and the NEA Foundation. More information and the nomination packet are at cta.org/awards (under “NEA Grants and Awards”). Deadline is March 3.
Grants for Your Great Ideas
CTA’s Institute for Teaching (IFT) works to create better teaching and learning conditions in our public schools by promoting strength-based, teacher-driven change. This model lets educators provide an asset-based approach to emphasize talents over weaknesses and strengths over deficits to create a learning environment that
supports and encourages every student to do their best.
Among other initiatives, IFT awards grants directly to CTA members and local chapters to help implement their student-centered ideas and innovations. All CTA members are eligible to apply for an Educator grant (up to $5,000) or an Impact grant (up to $20,000).
The IFT grant application is now open and must be submitted online
by March 31. Awarded IFT grants will be implemented during the 2023-2024 school year.
Find details, application materials, previous years’ grant summaries, FAQs and more at cta.org/IFT. Need help with your application? IFT holds office hours on Tuesdays, 2-5 p.m.; call 916-288-4953. Or go to the IFT booking site (at cta.org/IFT) to schedule a video conference during regular office hours. You can also contact IFT at
IFT@cta.org.
Honoring César Chávez and Dolores Huerta
Educators can celebrate the lives of labor and civil rights icons César
Chávez and Dolores Huerta in March and April. Cesar Chavez Day is
March 31, a state holiday in California. Dolores Huerta Day is on April 10, which this year marks her 93rd birthday.
Show students that change is possible through the lessons of their
lives. The State Board of Education offers model curriculum and resources about Chávez’s life and work, for all grade levels, at chavez.cde.ca.gov. Several years ago, a team of educators including CTA members worked with the Dolores Huerta Foundation to develop K-12 curriculum based on Huerta’s life and legacy; find it at doloreshuerta.org.
Enter the César E. Chávez and Dolores Huerta Education Award Program
This program provides recognition for educators and their students who demonstrate an understanding of the vision and guiding principles embraced by César E. Chávez and Dolores Huerta. Categories include written essays and visual art. Pre-K to higher education students and their sponsoring CTA member educators can receive up to $550 each. Deadline is March 3; for details, go to cta.org/chavez-huerta-award.
Heads up! There will be a silent auction of past recipients’ artwork at
CTA’s Equity and Human Rights Conference, March 17-19 in Santa Clara. For conference information go to cta.org/conferences.
Awareness and Heritage Months
Filipino American History Month in October is a time to learn about the Filipino American experience. Find information and resources at fanhs-national.org and filameducation.com.
April is School Library Month, celebrated by the American Association of School Librarians. Visit ala.org/aasl/advocacy/slm.
April is Arab American Heritage Month. For information and resources, visit arabamericafoundation.org/national-arab-american-heritage-month.
May is Better Hearing and Speech Month. Find classroom resources at asha.org/bhsm, where you can also search for “Tips for Helping Students With Hearing Loss in Virtual and In-Person Learning Settings.”
May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. For information and resources, visit asianpacificheritage.gov.
May is Jewish American Heritage Month. For information and resources, visit jewishheritagemonth.gov.
CAAASA Conference
March 30–April 1 Conference
Sheraton Grand Sacramento. “An Equitable Approach to Aligning Education and Health for the Success of African American and Other Students of Color.” California Association of African-American Superintendents and Administrators’ annual professional development summit. CTA is a sponsor of this event.
EMEID Leadership Program
April 8 Application Deadline
Members of color interested in CTA leadership roles may apply online starting Feb. 15 to the Ethnic Minority Early Identification and Development program’s Class of 2022-23. Applicants will be notified by May 13. Participants will attend Summer Institute and State Council (January 2023).
John Swett Awards
April 13 Nomination Deadline (extended)
CTA’s John Swett Awards for Media Excellence recognize media professionals for outstanding coverage of education during 2021, and student journalism. CTA local chapters and Service Center Councils may nominate.
ASCD Annual Conference
April 20–22 Conference
Virtual. “Recharge and Reconnect.” Choose from over 70 sessions plus exclusive content. Connect with fellow educators who are committed to serving students and changing our education landscape for the better.
Region IV Leadership Conference
April 22–24 Conference
Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa. “Fight for the Present, Shape the Future.” Develops leadership skills and emphasizes that building strong local unions and school site structures through nuts-and-bolts organizing, including member and community engagement, is the key to a stronger union.
CCA Spring Conference
April 29–May 1 Conference
Hilton Irvine/Orange County Airport. The Community College Association’s spring conference highlights membership and features the presentation of CCA’s WHO (We Honor Ours) Awards.
CTA Institute for Teaching Grants
April 30 Application deadline (extended)
IFT’s Grant Program demonstrates what CTA members can do when they have the freedom to create and invent. Apply for Educator Grants up to $5,000 and Impact Grants up to $20,000.
Día (Children’s Day)
April 30 Event
Hundreds of public and school libraries hold reading events to celebrate El Día de los Niños/El Día de los Libros (Children’s Day/Book Day), commonly known as Día. This national library program fosters literacy for all children from all backgrounds.
NEA Foundation Grants
May 1 Application Deadline
The NEA Foundation gives Student Success, Learning & Leadership, and Envision Equity grants up to $5,000.
National Teacher Day
May 3 Event
National Teacher Day (also called Teacher Appreciation Day) is on Tuesday of National Teacher Appreciation Week (May 2–6).
CTA Communications Awards
May 6 Nomination Deadline
The Communications Awards Program recognizes and honors CTA chapters, service centers and UniServs that communicate effectively with their members.
National School Nurse Day
May 11 Event
Since 1972, National School Nurse Day has honored school nurses on the Wednesday of National Nurse Week (May 6–12).
California Day of the Teacher
May 11 Event
“California Educators: At the Heart of Communities, Powering Our Future.” Check out resources on our website and celebrate your school’s educators in style.
ESP Week
May 15–21 Event
Celebrate the vital contributions of education support professionals during ESP Week (observed by the state as Classified School Employee Week).
CTA ESP Day
May 17 Event
Education support professionals make up one-third of the entire education workforce, and our schools could not run without them. CTA ESP Day celebrates the work of ESPs in our schools to make sure they know how much we appreciate them!
LGBTQ+ Safety in Schools Grants and Scholarships
May 31 Application Deadline
CTA’s LGBTQ+ Safety in Schools Program in Honor of Guy DeRosa offers scholarships up to $2,500 to self-identified LGBTQ+ members pursuing an education career, and grants up to $2,500 for groups and projects promoting understanding and respect for LGBTQ+ persons. Applicants must be an active CTA or Student CTA member, or a student sponsored by an active member.
California Primary Election
June 7 Election
Together, let’s elect lawmakers and leaders who share our values and support public education, students, our profession and our communities. Deadline to register to vote is May 23. Check out our webpage to see CTA’s candidate recommendations.
CA LMI Summer Institute
June 21–23 Conference
San Diego. The California Labor Management Initiative Summer Institute brings together labor-management teams to energize partnerships, build community, and navigate the upcoming year together. Pre-conference on June 21 for new teams.
ISTE Live 22
June 26–29 Conference
New Orleans/virtual. The International Society for Technology in Education offers over 1,000 sessions presented by experts from education and beyond to provide practical, usable strategies for your classroom that you can implement right away.
PBL World 2022
June 27–30 Conference
American Canyon High School, Napa. PBL World, sponsored by the nonprofit Buck Institute for Education, is the premier conference for Project Based Learning.
NEA Representative Assembly
July 2–6 Convention
Chicago. NEA’s annual RA is the world’s largest democratic deliberative body with about 8,000 delegates. CTA members will help set policy and chart the direction of NEA business.
California MTSS Professional Learning Institute
July 12–14 Conference
Anaheim. “Hear Us, Together We Rise.” The fifth annual California MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Support) PLI brings together classroom educators, administrators, school counselors, school psychologists, school-based mental health clinicians, district leaders, county offices of education leaders, and community-based organizations to support the creation of inclusive and equitable learning environments.
Presidents Conference
July 14–17 Conference
TBD. This training will provide new and returning chapter presidents a foundation to rely upon as we prepare for future challenges, host a variety of informative skill-building sessions, and provide opportunities to network with other presidents.
QTEL Summer Institutes
July 18–22, July 25–29 Conferences
San Francisco/virtual. WestEd’s Quality Teaching for English Learners team offers foundational professional development supporting high-quality education for English learners.
NSTA Chicago22
July 21–23 Conference
Chicago. The National Science Teaching Association’s national conference brings together educators, presenters and exhibitors, and features the latest tools and technologies for successful STEAM education.
Summer Institute
July 24–28 Conference
UCLA, Los Angeles. CTA’s premier training workshop offers sessions in areas that assist chapter leaders in the day-to-day representation and support of members. Sessions include Communications, Instruction and Professional Development, Emerging Leaders, Bargaining, School Finance, Healthcare Benefits and Issues, Legal, Member Benefits, and Community Engagement.
CTA Events 2021-22
Locations are TBD except where noted.
Region I Leadership Conference
Sept. 9–12, 2021
Virtual
Region II Leadership Conference
Sept. 29–Oct. 2, 2021
Virtual
CCA Fall Conference
Oct. 15–17, 2021
Virtual
State Council of Education
Oct. 22–24, 2021 (virtual)
Jan. 14–16 (virtual), March 25–27, May 20–22, 2022
Los Angeles
LGBTQ+ Issues Conference
Oct. 29–31, 2021
Palm Springs
Fall Special Education Conference
Nov. 5–7, 2021
Virtual
Student CTA Fall Event
Nov. 6–7, 2021
New Educator Weekend South
Dec. 9–12, 2021
Virtual
Issues Conference
Jan. 21–23, 2022
Virtual (changed)
Good Teaching Conference North
Jan. 28–30, 2022
Virtual (changed)
Region III Leadership Conference
Feb. 4–6, 2022 POSTPONED UNTIL THE FALL
CCA Winter Conference
Feb. 11–13, 2022
Virtual (changed)
New Educator Weekend North
Feb. 25–27, 2022
Santa Clara
Read Across America
March 2, 2022
CTA/NEA-Retired Issues Conference
March 3–4, 2022
Virtual (changed)
Equity and Human Rights Conference
March 4–6, 2022
Los Angeles
Good Teaching Conference South
March 18–20, 2022
Garden Grove
Region IV Leadership Conference
April 22–24, 2022
Costa Mesa
Student CTA Collaborative Forum
April 23–24, 2022
CCA Spring Conference
April 29–May 1, 2022
Irvine
California Day of the Teacher
May 11, 2022
National School Nurse Day
May 11, 2022
CTA ESP Day
May 17, 2022
Presidents Conference
July 14–17, 2022
Summer Institute
July 24–28, 2022