Award-Winning Newspaper of United Teachers Los Angeles • www.utla.net Volume XLVII, Number 4, February 8, 2019 WHENWHEN WEWE FIGHT,FIGHT, WEWE WINWIN

RainRain oror Shine,Shine, WeWe WalkedWalked thethe Line!Line!

INSIDE

• Scenes from our strike: Pages 4-8 PULLOUT POSTER • Agreement delivers wins: Page 4 PAGE 12 United Teacher • for the latest news: www.utla.net February 8, 2019 United Teacher President’s perspective

PRESIDENT Alex Caputo-Pearl NEA AFFILIATE VP Cecily Myart-Cruz AFT AFFILIATE VP Juan Ramirez Together, we made history ELEMENTARY VP Gloria Martinez SECONDARY VP Daniel Barnhart TREASURER Alex Orozco By Alex Caputo-Pearl SECRETARY Arlene Inouye UTLA President EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Jeff Good Our strike won an overwhelming for the campaign. victory on the issues. We launched the 1. Win on key BOARD OF DIRECTORS teacher strike movement in California and contract demands. NORTH AREA: Karla Griego, Chair (Buchanan ES), Mark accelerated the teacher strike movement 2. Win on key po- Ramos (Contreras LC), Rebecca Solomon (RFK UCLA Comm. School), Julie Van Winkle (LOOC Liason) nationally. We made history. litical and common But what remains etched in our brains good demands SOUTH AREA: Maria Miranda, Chair (Miramonte ES), Aydé Bravo (Maywood ES), L. Cynthia Matthews and hearts most indelibly is the together- outside the contract. (McKinley ES), Karen Ticer-León (Tweedy ES) ness, love, pride, and creative spark we 3. Build the EAST AREA: Adrian Tamayo, Chair (Lorena ES), felt on the picket lines and in the rallies. movement for Ingrid Gunnell (Salary Point Advisor), Yolanda Tamayo (Lorena ES), Gillian Russom (Roosevelt HS) The co-workers at Los Angeles Elemen- public education. tary who got to know each other so much We achieved all WEST AREA: Erika Jones, Chair (CTA Director), Georgia Flowers Lee (Saturn ES), Noah Lippe-Klein better on the line that they decided to step of our goals. (Dorsey HS), Larry Shoham (Hamilton HS) up and broaden their chapter leadership Over my 22 CENTRAL AREA: Stacie Webster, Chair (West Vernon ES), at the school as a permanent move. The years of teaching Kelly Flores (Hawkins HS), Tomás Flores (West Vernon ES), Claudia Rodriquez (49th Street) chapter leaders at Augustus Hawkins and community High School who said that, when it organizing, and VALLEY EAST AREA: Scott Mandel, Chair (Pacoima Magnet), Victoria Casas (Beachy ES), Mel House rained the week after the strike, their col- four and a half (Elementary P.E.), Hector Perez-Roman (Arleta HS) leagues missed striking together (“picket years of being VALLEY WEST AREA: Bruce Newborn, Chair (Hale line withdrawal”). The parents at Lillian UTLA president, Charter), Melodie Bitter (Lorne ES), Wendi Davis (Henry MS), Javier Romo (Mulholland MS) Street Elementary who brought pozole to I have been a part the line for a collective feast. The entire of, and closely HARBOR AREA: Steve Seal, Chair (Eshelman ES), Karen Macias (Del Amo ES), Jennifer McAfee school community at Arleta High School observed, many (Dodson MS), Elgin Scott (Taper ES) and Romer Middle School dancing in the unions’ contract Our collective power gave us the strength to win the strike. ADULT & OCCUP ED: Matthew Kogan (Evans CAS) rain and contributing to the social media campaigns and BILINGUAL EDUCATION: Cheryl L. Ortega (Sub Unit) dance contests. The members at Nevin many community campaigns to change professionals, ROC/ROP teachers, adult EARLY CHILDHOOD ED: Teri Harnik, Cleveland EEC Elementary who made “Thank You” cards policies. I have never seen a victory with education, substitute educators, ethnic HEALTH & HUMAN SERVICES: for parents, stating, “Thank you for sup- the depth and breadth of what we won studies, and expanded chapter chair rights Mallorie Evans (Educational Audiologist) porting our schools during this historic together in our strike. regarding budgets, speaking at district SPECIAL ED: Lucía Arias (Sub Unit) strike. Together, we will build a better and For months between July and Novem- meetings, and more. Read details on page 4. SUBSTITUTES: Benny Madera more equal world for our students and our ber 2018, we blanketed the city with the In addition to the privatization, school PACE CHAIR: Marco Flores community. UTLA Strong!” The members “United, We Act Now” flyer, outlining funding, and Community School victo- UTLA RETIRED: John Perez at Stagg Elementary and so many sites who seven of our key demands. We won on ries above, there were additional victories said the strike was a tremendous boost all of them. on political and common good demands AFFILIATIONS Pay: outside the contract, including expanding American Federation of Teachers in morale. The members at Carpenter El- A 6% retroactive increase without National Education Association ementary who collectively created a social contingencies and without conditions that green space on school campuses, expand- media phenom with carpool karaoke. undermine healthcare. ing the number of schools where school STATE & NATIONAL OFFICERS Every one of you on the picket line Class size: Elimination of Section 1.5 of safety alternatives to so-called random CFT PRESIDENT: Joshua Pechthalt CTA PRESIDENT: Eric Heins embraced your ability to be an agent the class-size article, leading to the first searches would be used, and creating an CTA DIRECTOR: Erika Jones of change in the world. So many of you enforceable class-size caps in decades, immigrant defense fund. CFT VICE PRESIDENTS: Arlene Inouye, John Perez, Juan Ramirez embraced your leadership—motivating along with the first systematic reduction On our third goal of using our contract NEA PRESIDENT: Lily Eskelsen Garcia your co-workers, organizing elements of in class sizes in decades over the course campaign and our strike to build the move- AFT PRESIDENT: Randi Weingarten AFT VICE PRESIDENT: Alex Caputo-Pearl your picket line or the work supporting of three years. ment for public education, we scored an NEA DIRECTOR: Mel House your picket line and rally attendance. Staffing and school safety: Increased unambiguous victory. Tens of thousands of You are incredible. staffing, including a nurse in every school parents picketed and marched with us. We UTLA COMMUNICATIONS It is so important that we nurture these every day, a teacher librarian in every sec- fundamentally shifted the media narrative EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Alex Caputo-Pearl COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR: Anna Bakalis relationships that developed during the ondary school, and a first-time enforceable about public schools in LA and around COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALISTS: Kim Turner, strike. It was our collective power, our student-to-counselor ratio. the country. The new narrative: We must Carolina Barreiro, Tammy Lyn Gann togetherness across over 34,000 educators Testing: A 50% reduction in standard- invest in our schools, not privatize them; in ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT: Laura Aldana and tens of thousands of parents, and our ized testing. the richest state in the richest country in the Privatization: world, it is clearly possible to do this; and, EDITORIAL INFORMATION strengthened relationships to each other A School Board resolu- that gave us the power to win the strike. tion calling on Sacramento to implement a educators will strike for our students. We UNITED TEACHER 3303 Wilshire Blvd., 10th Fl., LA, CA 90010 It is also what will give us the power to moratorium on new charter schools, a first- have helped inspire teacher movements Email: [email protected] win the next steps in the struggle for edu- time article in our contract giving public and possible strikes in Oakland, Denver, UTLA main line: 213-487-5560 cational justice. So, take time to remember district schools more rights in charter co- Virginia, Texas, Maryland, and more. ADVERTISING Senders Communications Group the picket lines and be intentional about locations, and a commitment to remove Brian Bullen: 818-884-8966, ext. 1108 building those relationships even stronger. unused bungalows. Lessons from our strike We’ll need those relationships, that dis- School funding: An endorsement by the We learned many lessons from our UNITED TEACHER accepts paid advertisements from outside companies and organizations, including UTLA sponsors cipline, that pride, and that energy for our district and Mayor Eric Garcetti for the strike, and we did our learning on a public and vendors with no relationship with UTLA. Only approved next steps: Schools and Communities First statewide stage, so that the US labor movement, vendors can use the UTLA logo in their ads. The content of an advertisement is the responsibility of the advertiser • Educate ourselves and parents about measure in November 2020 that would teacher unions everywhere, and move- alone, and UTLA cannot be held responsible for its accuracy, the new contract and implement it ag- bring $11 billion to schools and social ments everywhere can learn with us. veracity, or reliability. Appearance of an advertisement should gressively. services, and an unlocking of LA County Strikes work: We live in a period of not be viewed as an endorsement or recommendation by United Teachers Los Angeles. • Elect Jackie Goldberg to LAUSD monies for mental health services. history in which the right wing is at- School Board District 5. Community Schools: Investment in 30 tempting to take away the right to strike, United Teacher (ISSN # 0745-4163) is published eight • Support the possible Oakland school communities to transform into and liberals are often too scared to utter times a year (monthly except for November, January, teacher strike. Community Schools, as a model for great the word “strike” for fear that it will be June, and July) by United Teachers Los Angeles, 3303 • Pressure the state for a charter cap and education, and as a proactive alternative too “disruptive.” With a massive, ef- Wilshire Blvd., 10th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90010. additional funding for schools. to charter schools. fective, strategic, and well-organized Subscriptions: $20.00 per year. (Price included in dues/agency fee of UTLA bargaining unit members.) There were contractual wins beyond strike, we have helped put striking back Periodicals postage paid at Los Angeles, California. What we achieved these, including for special education, on the map. And, we have shown that POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to United We began our contract campaign with greater educator voice in magnet con- strikes work. We would not have won Teacher, 3303 Wilshire Blvd., 10th Floor, Los Angeles, 80% of our contract demands without CA 90010. Telephone 213-487-5560. member, parent, and community surveys in version, early education, workspace for February 2017. We had three overall goals itinerants and health and human services (continued on next page) 2 United Teacher • for the latest news: www.utla.net February 8, 2019

PRESIDENT’S PERSPECTIVE gaining session at the end of a weekend that we did this, for students and educators (continued from previous page) of bargaining, pressure from the media, who have, for too long, been neglected. We pressure from elected officials, and trying made significant gains on articulating district a strike. We would not have forced the to balance the centrality of our members norms for class sizes and caseloads, getting non-contractual political and common being able to read and understand the release time for teachers to do assessments, good demands onto the table without agreement with the value of minimizing requiring the district to provide data on a strike. We would not have galvanized our members’ loss of pay to the degree caseloads, gaining the ability to bargain on the movement we did and shifted the possible, we went with option (c). We instructional delivery models, addressing media narrative without a strike. apologize for the rushed voting and are for the first time the varied needs of autis- Building systems and structures pays reflective about this difficult choice. tic students, and accelerating the response off: All of the work we have done over the Wins must be used as platforms to con- time the district has to address class size past four years to build systems and struc- tinue the struggle: We cannot rest on our and caseload problems. But there is much tures—recruiting chapter chairs at every wins. We must use them as the foundation more to do. We will use the current wins as school, building contract action teams at to aggressively push forward in these and a platform to fight aggressively for more. our schools, building cluster systems for other critical areas. • Psychologists, PSWs, and PSAs: In the communication—were essential to orga- • Class size: The strike would have past four years, we have won key victo- nizing a successful strike. been worth it even if our only win had ries for our members in these groups with Parents, youth, and community are es- been eliminating Section 1.5 on class size. regards to beating back RIFs and winning sential: Four years ago, we initiated the Class size is that important to working additional hiring. With our strike, we won Reclaim Our Schools LA coalition of com- conditions, learning conditions, building the guarantee of work space for these munity and civil rights organizations, and coalitions, limiting RIFs, limiting charter members, a contractual workload commit- Alex on the first day of the strike with his daugh- we began a process of training our members co-locations, and so much more. Killing tee that will drive toward reducing ratios ter, Ella, an LAUSD student. Many families to do school-by-school parent connection 1.5 will result in reductions in class size and unnecessary paperwork, and the ability walked the line together and embraced the strike and communication. This paid off in the at every level next year because the class to be a part of the innovative Community as a living lesson that people can lead by taking strike with tens of thousands of parents size caps in the 2017-18 Memorandum School model. We will need to work to ag- to the streets. As so many rally signs read: “Los involved. ROSLA did an amazing parallel of Understanding will be enforced. The gressively build on these victories. maestros luchando tambien están enseñando”— set of actions during our strike, including 3½-year process to close the gap between • Bilingual and multilingual education: We The teachers who are fighting are also teaching. protests in the rain at Monica Garcia and the caps in the 2017-18 MOU and the caps will forcefully work to make improvements Austin Beutner's homes and a teach-in at in our permanent contract will result in these key areas. This will require deeply about the new contract and implement- the offices of a well-known privatizer. We in additional reductions of up to seven educating the district on the needs of our ing it aggressively. must double-down on this work to continue students. These are huge wins—and, as students, and the educators serving them. • Electing Jackie Goldberg to School to build the movement for our schools. the civil rights movement of the 1960s I will end where I began. We just expe- Board District 5. Collective action is the key to social and other movements have taught us, rienced something together that very few • Supporting the possible Oakland change: We live in a society that celebrates sometimes huge victories are imple- in life do—an incredible, victorious, and teacher strike. celebrities and individual leaders. No celeb- mented gradually. But we will not rest movement-building strike. I couldn’t be • Pressuring the state for a charter cap rity or individual leader could have won the with these wins. Now that we have the more honored to have done this with you. and additional funding for schools. victories we did, or galvanized the attention win of enforceable class size caps, we can And now we move to our next steps. You are wonderful. Move forward with and movement we did. We were able to do press to lower them even further in future Every one of us needs to personally involve pride. You did something so few others that through the collective, organized action bargaining, from TK-12 and adult school, ourselves in each of these. Reach out and have done. You are going to help build of tens of thousands of people. from core subjects to elective classes. get precinct-walking, text-banking, and on it. You embraced your ability to be an Both major political parties need to be • Special education: We opened up the informational picketing at your schools on agent of change in the world—and you aggressively challenged: The Arizona, West special education article in our contract for your calendar for these next steps: made a change. I will see you soon, and Virginia, and Oklahoma teacher walkouts the first time in 38 years. We should be proud • Educating ourselves and parents let’s keep moving forward. of last year were called “red state strikes” against Republican legislatures. Though Democrats are supposedly more sympa- thetic to public education and unions, it In this issue took our strike for elected officials in Los Angeles and California, overwhelmingly Democratic, to take the underfunding and 4 Ground-breaking agreement reinvests in public education 8 UTLA Leadership: We Are privatization of our schools seriously. We Details of the new contract. #UTLAStrong have to keep on challenging them. Being bold and pushing political imagina- 14 Passings tion matters: The district refused to bargain 4 Strike 2019 timeline Highlights of our six days on the line. school funding, Community Schools, ele- 16 Note from the UTLA-Retired ments of charter schools, and our common good proposals, claiming they were 6 My time on the strike line president “outside the scope of bargaining.” They Bell High teacher Lisa Culpepper on the unity, the chants, the 18 Involvement opportunity: CTA took us to court saying that we couldn’t honks—and yes, the rain. bargain standardized testing because it is State Council elections a permissive subject of bargaining, not a mandatory subject. We were bold, pushed 7 Accelerated teachers lead first charter strike in the state 19 WHO awards through, and reached agreement on all of New contract will help stem extreme teacher turnover at the these. We are imagining a new future in charter schools. 20 Committee events which social movements bargain on more and more issues that matter to people. 21 STRS preretirement There is no textbook way to end a strike: workshops On the Tuesday that was the last day of the strike, the voting on the tentative agree- 23 Grapevines ment was very rushed and frustrated some members. We understand this, embrace the criticism, and are reflective. We had three options on how to end the strike: (a) Get connected to UTLA have the Board of Directors end it alone, Facebook: facebook.com/UTLAnow which would have been unacceptable because our members owned this strike, Twitter: @utlanow and that would have been undemocratic; YouTube: youtube.com/UTLAnow (b) extend the strike through Wednesday, which would have given people more time to read the agreement and vote, but would have added an additional day unpaid; or (c) Use that 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. period on Tuesday to try to rush the voting. In the intensity of the end of a 24-hour bar- BY JOE BRUSKY MILES EEC, PHOTO OF VIVIAN ODEGA, COVER 3 United Teacher • for the latest news: www.utla.net February 8, 2019 Ground-breaking agreement reinvests in public education Details of the new contract.

Our contract agreement is ground- • Progressive class-size reductions for breaking in its focus on meeting student grades 4-12 over the next three years: needs and its embrace of strategies to reduction of one student per grade foster a thriving, sustainable public school level in 2019, two students in 2020-2021, and four students in 2021-22, compared system. For more than 20 months at the to current levels. The steady reduction of table, LAUSD refused to bargain on any- class-size maximums will naturally reduce thing but the most narrow of topics, but class-size averages. our strike forced the district to engage • Additional targeted class-size reductions on issues critical to the survival of public in 75 high-needs elementary schools and schools in LA. By winning on our demands 15 high-needs middle schools to reinvest in public education, we pushed • Agreement sets the stage to push class sizes back on the privatizers’ agenda to defund lower in future bargaining, now that Section and destabilize our schools. Here are the 1.5 is eliminated (before, any negotiated class- size reductions were meaningless because critical elements of the agreement: LAUSD had the power to ignore them).

Fair wages Getting rid of Section 1.5 is the biggest • 6% raise with no contingencies victory in this contract. We now have hard class-size caps for the first time in 25 years. We fought off district demands to tie The elimination of Section 1.5 was the last the raise to additional work, and we item we negotiated at the table—LAUSD defeated the district’s priority to start held onto it until the bitter end because it cutting healthcare (Rule of 87 for future is such a powerful tool for them. Section employees), which LAUSD’s Hard Choices 1.5 is why we have more than 800 classes report claims is 44% too generous. LAUSD this school year that violate our contract only moved to the 6% salary offer in the agreement. None of this will be the case fall, after our strike prep intensified. For at the start of the new school year. With months before that, LAUSD had stuck to its Section 1.5 gone, all class sizes will have offer of a 2% raise and 2% one-time bonus. hard caps, and those hard caps are enforce- Lower class sizes able through the grievance procedure. • Elimination of Section 1.5, which allowed the district to ignore class-size averages More nurses, counselors, More than a strike, a movement: Every day we put tens of thousands of people in the streets for huge and caps in the contract and unilaterally and librarians marches (above), regional actions (below), and daily morning and afternoon picketing at schools. increase class size. This will impact all • A nurse in every school every day by grade levels and subjects by creating real, 2020-21 (at least 300 new nurses hired) The contract makes solid progress in fully enforceable class-size maximums. • A teacher librarian in every secondary Less testing & more teaching • Agreement forms parent, teacher, and ad- • All English and Math classes reduced to school every day by 2020-21 (at least 82 staffing our schools with the professionals ministrator task force to create an inven- 39 students effective 2019-20 (there are new teacher-librarians hired) needed to give students the supports they tory of tests not mandated by the state or nearly 600 classes this year with more than • Contractual guarantee of student-counsel- deserve and to build the kind of schools federal government and to analyze their 39 students) or ratios of 500:1 at every secondary school parents want to send their children to. effectiveness and cost. • Task force will make recommendations to cut up to 50% of standardized tests not man- dated by state or federal government

LAUSD took legal action to try to push our testing demands off the table, but our strike forced them to engage on the issue.

Funding for schools • Formal commitment that LAUSD and the Mayor’s office will jointly advocate for increased county and state funding, including additional funding for nurses, mental health, special education, and Community Schools • Mayor will endorse the Schools and Com- munities First ballot initiative in 2020 that would bring $11 billion in new state revenue for education and community needs (continued on page 10)

Last-minute sign-laminating 50,000+ strong, we at Lakeshore march to Beaudry Forecast calls for Rain or shine we walk the line! “picket umbrellas”

The Daily Show’s Trevor Noah calls our demands “the most reasonable ever”

On strike for our students: Prep-Day 1 4 United Teacher • for the latest news: www.utla.net February 8, 2019 The strike heard ’round the world Our power in the streets forces reinvestment in our schools and shifts the narrative on education.

Our strike was a watershed moment for for their sore feet, with a note thanking public education: In six days, we galva- them for standing up for students. nized the city, dominated national media coverage, won a ground-breaking contract, Game-changing and learned that in the battle to reinvest contract agreement in our schools, the public stands with us. Our strike accomplished in six days With 34,000 members out, it was one what years of bargaining could not: Force of the biggest strikes in California history the district to reinvest in our schools. The and, despite torrential downpours, com- agreement reached January 22 at LA City munity support grew as the walkout pro- Hall, where Mayor Eric Garcetti and his gressed from its January 14 start, with team had been mediating between the two more students staying home from school sides, hits all the defining elements of our and more parents marching with us, contract campaign. topping 60,000 people at our biggest rally. The wins include a 6 percent retroac- Our work stoppage drew national tive raise; lower class sizes and the top- attention to how California, one of the priority elimination of Section 1.5, which wealthiest and most liberal states in the allowed LAUSD to violate class sizes in country, spends shamefully little on its the contract; a nurse in every school every public schools and how our students—pre- day; more funding for librarians and coun- #UTLAStrong in the streets of LA. dominately from communities of color— selors; and a 50 percent reduction in the are not getting what they need to succeed. amount of standardized testing (read full Ed movement has spread from West Vir- deserve better and our students deserve “Teachers tend to be selfless people, and details on page 4). We beat back an attack ginia to Oklahoma, Arizona, and beyond. better. We must keep our expectations high for years we’ve just dealt with issues such as on healthcare, secured support for a cap Our walkout in Los Angeles—ground zero and bring the same energy and spirit to larger class sizes and a lack of funding and on charter schools and additional state for privatization attacks by billionaires like our next fights, because the next struggle resources that led to less and less of every- funding, and made progress on common Eli Broad—was the first to highlight the is right around the corner.” thing that we need for a thriving school,” good demands around support for im- destabilizing impact the unregulated ex- Some immediate next steps: Multnomah Elementary chapter chair Lor- migrant families, expanding green space, pansion of the corporate charter industry • A deeper dive into the new con- raine Quiñones says. “Our schools have and ending so-called random searches. has on public education. tract and implementation issues through been neglected for too long, and the broader By withholding our labor, we forced The strike was a wakeup call for elected chapter meetings and trainings. public had no idea what our working and LAUSD to make major concessions on officials—one that aligns with the new • Precinct walking to elect Jackie Gold- learning conditions were like. Our strike items it had refused to negotiate for political dynamic emerging around edu- berg to the open LAUSD School Board seat sparked a sense of urgency to demand the months—such as reducing overtesting— cation and the charter industry. State Su- in District 5 (see page 7). changes we know are needed and deserved.” and on top-line priorities like eliminating perintendent Tony Thurmond has called • Supporting our brothers and sisters in With passion and discipline, UTLA Section 1.5, the last thing we won at the for a temporary ban on new K-12 charter Denver and Oakland as they move toward members conducted a strike like the state has table. The new contract, which was ap- schools in the state, saying the state has possible strikes. not seen in decades. All the joy and creativity proved in a membership vote by 81% to reached a “tipping point” with too many • Taking action in Sacramento to push that educators bring to their schools were 19%, is not a narrow labor agreement but charters, and Governor Gavin Newsom is for more school funding and to answer the displayed on our picket lines, with intra- a broad compact that sets us on a path to calling for a review of the impact of charter LAUSD School Board’s call for a morato- campus dance challenges, chant competi- a sustainable public education system and school growth on district finances. rium on charters in Los Angeles. tions, and Instagram-worthy protest signs. reflects our game-changing strike that saw And locally, in an incredible turn- We move onto these next steps with The incredible outpouring of support the community unite behind reinvesting around, the LAUSD School Board voted deeper relationships—with colleagues, took myriad forms. A Boyle Heights mother in public schools, not dismantling them. 5 to 1 in support of board member Richard parents, the community—forged on the opened her home every day, cooking meals “People were made more aware of the Vladovic’s motion to call on the state picket lines. Rosa Parks Learning Center and keeping hot coffee and tea always on challenges we face,” says Jee Kang, chapter to impose a moratorium on charters— teacher Abigail Massey says that the expe- hand for the water-logged educators at chair at 186th Street School. “Most of our a lopsided result unthinkable before rience of being on strike has been “trans- Mendez High. In Highland Park, strikers school’s parents didn’t know that we our walkout. Only board member Nick formative” for the staff. at multiple schools were cheered by the didn’t have a nurse every day. Now they Melvoin voted against the resolution. “We were united in our cause and by the anonymous driver who steered his pickup realize that the state spends more to im- overwhelming support of our local com- truck around the neighborhood, blasting prison people than to teach their children, Building on our victory munity, the city, and ultimately the teaching “We Will Rock You” from a giant speaker and I think elected officials will keep these Our victory was more than a year in the profession across the nation,” Massey says. aimed out his window. On Day 4 of the newly energized parents in mind when making and rests on the essential work of “We took a huge step forward in providing strike, parents with the Parents Support- they make funding decisions. It’s not just building structures at school sites, engag- our students with the environment they ing Teachers Facebook group organized a teachers demanding that we reinvest in ing parents and the community as part- need to become successful learners, as well 4,000-strong Hands Across Colfax human our schools—it’s the entire community.” ners, and taking escalating actions that as what teachers need to be successful edu- chain that stretched for nearly a mile. built our strike readiness. cational professionals. Despite the exhaus- And when the strike was over, one Taper Striking a blow against privatization “Our expectations were fundamentally tion, high emotions, and uncertainty of the Avenue parent welcomed teachers back Our strike was the eighth major teacher raised by this strike,” UTLA President Alex strike, I would do it all again, and I’m ready with gift-wrapped packages of Epsom salt walkout over the past year as the Red for Caputo-Pearl says. “Together we said we to keep fighting for my students.”

Two rock stars—Diane Ravitch & Steven Van Students serenade teachers Dolores Huerta marches Venice High Zandt—join the picket across the picket lines with grandsons in Survey shows deep picket-line dance line at Hamilton High 50,000+ protest Central Area community support outside charter video goes viral lobby headquarters

On strike for our students: Days 2-3 5 United Teacher • for the latest news: www.utla.net February 8, 2019

In your own words My time on the strike line Our passion guides our fight for a better future.

By Lisa Napoleon Culpepper English teacher Bell High School ​ A man I don’t know offers me a tamale. I’m hungry, so I say, “Sure.” I take off my gloves, reach into the cooler, and pick one. I can tell it has been made with love because the shells are tied by hand with skinny strings of husks. I unwrap it just wide enough to see the tamale. I don’t hesitate and I begin eating—slowly, though, because I am still cold and don’t want to drop it from shaking. As I eat, I stand facing north and gaze at the teachers from underneath the protection of the tent. The rain hits my face and drips profusely from the covering’s edges. I see the same Bell High crews leading the intersection marches. The traffic light turns green, and hordes of teachers begin walking from one side of the street to the Bell High, feeling the community love on the picket line.

dividers carrying signs that read: “Honk schools gathered at this central location more than 30,000 teachers picket in the When more than if you support teachers.” A symphony of after morning picketing to plead our case rain for days, they are telling the world horns—high, low, short, long, puttering, and to the people. We took over all four corners that something is terribly wrong with the 30,000 teachers cacophonous—spray the air. I hear the rhyth- of the intersection and amplified our cause educational system and they are damn mic intonations of “We are the teachers, the by walking relentlessly in a storm, rallying tired of being blamed for it. picket in the rain mighty, mighty teachers, standing for stu- for social justice, and moving as one. The For six days in January, educators for the for days, they are dents and for education.” The groups begin waves of honks made a statement: The com- Los Angeles Unified School District fought to walk through the intersections again, and munity understood what we were doing. back. We won the strike on so many differ- telling the world that underneath the Conroy’s flower shop sign, As I stood under the tent that provided ent levels: for ourselves, our students, our I see a group of teachers dancing in yellow, very little protection, I felt supported. I felt communities, and for education as a whole. something is terribly red, and white rain ponchos. it in my heart that we, the LAUSD public It was work that had to be done because Those​ standing along the sidewalks that school teachers, were being heard, but our future depended on it. On Wednesday, wrong with the enclose Atlantic and Florence raise their more importantly, that the community I was proud to walk back into my classroom. fists and chant, “What do we want? A new was standing with us. Teachers returned to their work as passion- educational system. contract. When do we want it? Now!” ​Teachers are very passionate people. ately as they had stomped the pavement The voices and the honking overtake the We have to be. Whether that passion is the previous week. The consistent theme other. Mr. Soars carries a UTLA flag, Ms. plummeting rain. The harder it rains, the perceived as dry and brittle or overboard, was, “I’m glad to be back.” This work is our Wilson’s ringlets of soaked red hair are no louder Atlantic and Florence becomes. My it is there. And when more than 30,000 passion, and it is this passion that guided our longer bouncing, and Mr. Moreno is wearing senses are overwhelmed. teachers take to the streets in protest, when collective action to fight for a better future. a construction helmet with “UTLA” written I’m​ finishing my tamale, quietly observ- on it in capital letters; he blows two whistles ing the making of history, and a black SUV while holding a large sign that reads: “I Got turns out of an adjacent parking lot with Air your opinion 99 Problems and A Lying Superintendent Is a girl standing up and leaning out of the We welcome submissions to “In Your Own Words,” which is an open One.” I see a migration of defiant whistle sunroof. The car holds a mother, daughter, forum for members and the community. “In Your Own Words” columns blowers, sign- and flag-carriers, five-gallon and two younger brothers in the backseat. state the opinion of the author and do not necessarily reflect the position of water bottle drummers, and boom-box The SUV stops. All of them get out of the UTLA, its officers, or UNITED TEACHER. car and they too chant, “UT-LA!” They holders—they’re chanting to keep them- By mail: Editor, UNITED TEACHER, 3303 Wilshire Blvd., raise their fists in solidarity, and the crowd selves and those around them fired up. They 10th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90010. turn to the cars that are passing by and look next to them goes ballistic. It seems like a at the drivers and passengers straight in their scene right out of the movies. By email: [email protected] eyes. Other teachers walk along the middle ​This was Day 4, when neighboring

Benjamin Bratt tweets support (one of dozens of Video of LAUSD fifth-grader Aryana Fields celebs in solidarity) singing “Strike Song” goes viral Alex gets standing ovation on the Parents with Reclaim Our Real Time With Bill Maher show Schools LA hold protest outside Monica Garcia and 60,000+ Let the Sunshine In Austin Beutner’s homes at Grand Park rally

On strike for our students: Days 4-5 6 United Teacher • for the latest news: www.utla.net February 8, 2019 Accelerated teachers lead first charter strike in the state Eight-day work stoppage results in big wins.

One day after UTLA members hit the and practices. picket lines, nearly 80 educators from The • Annual increases in the employer’s Accelerated Schools walked off the job, share of healthcare costs. setting off the first charter teacher strike in The contract, which extends to the 2020- California and only the second in the nation. 2021 school year, was approved by a 77-1 The strike ended after eight days on the vote of Accelerated teachers. line, with an agreement reached with the “This contract was hard fought, and support of parents and the mediation of Los we are thrilled to have reached an agree- Angeles City Councilmember Curren Price. ment that will work to combat the 40% to The new contract includes several im- 50% teacher turnover that’s plagued our provements aimed at reducing teacher turn- schools and that will allow teachers to over by providing increased job security and focus on providing the very best for our improvements to teachers’ healthcare ben- students,” Wallis Annenberg High School efits. Newly negotiated provisions include: teacher German Gallardo said. “We went • Three months’ severance package, in- on strike for the schools that our students cluding salary and benefits, for any teacher deserve, and we couldn’t be more proud of who is not offered an employment contract them and the families who have showed from one year to the next. such incredible support and commitment • An improved arbitration process that to our schools during the strike.” requires a unanimous vote of the Acceler- The agreement capped more than 20 ated Board of Trustees in order to reverse months of negotiations between the union- any decision made by an arbitrator. ized charter school teachers and The Ac- • Annual signing bonuses of $10,000 for celerated Schools. In November 2018, the Accelerated teachers held the line for eight days, fighting for measures to address the huge teachers who return to their positions at parties reached impasse and entered into a turnover at the schools. the beginning of each school year. state-mandated fact-finding process. Talks • The formation of a Collaborative following that process stalled, and teach- sion, and unfortunately this dispute was a to heal. Having this agreement in place Consensus Committee for stakeholders ers at the charter schools voted 99% to long time coming here at our schools,” TAS provides teachers solid ground to stand to discuss issues and create and implement approve a strike. third grade teacher Amanda Martinez said. on as we work toward building the school improvements to schoolwide processes “Our strike was critical for our profes- “But now it is time for our community that this community deserves.” Building on our victory: Elect Jackie Goldberg March 5 The progressive leader we need on the LAUSD School Board to fight for public education.

During our six-day strike, Jackie Gold- Broad—who want to defund our schools in On March 5, we berg was a constant presence, speaking favor of an unregulated system of privately can flip the District at rallies, talking with teachers huddled operated charters. 5 seat away from under umbrellas in the rain, and giving Informed by her decades of experi- the privatizers, fire-up talks to picketers. She was on the ence—from classroom teacher to assembly who spent millions line because she knows our fight was not member—Jackie has concluded that “the to elect criminally just for a fair contract but to push back billionaires have stacked the deck against indicted board against the wealthy privatizers—like Eli district public schools.” member Ref Rodri- guez, and we can elect a public edu- Ad paid for by Students, Parents and Educators in Support cation defender to of Jackie Goldberg for School Board 2019, Sponsored by the board. Teachers Unions, Including United Teachers Los Angeles. VOTE: Vote by Committee major funding from: mails ballots have Political Action Council of Educators, Sponsored by Teachers Unions, already dropped. Including United Teachers Los Angeles If you live in Dis- American Federation of Teachers Solidarity Committee trict 5, mail your California Teachers Association/Association for Better Citizenship ballot in today or Jackie on the first day of the strike on the picket line at Marshall High. This ad was not authorized by a candidate go to the polls on or a committee controlled by a candidate. March 5. 16 and 23 and March 2 and 3. Sign up at VOLUNTEER: Precinct walking February www.utla.net/news/elect-jackie-goldberg

50,000+ cheer contract victory Carpenter Avenue teachers’ in Grand Park Strike makes SNL monologue carpool karaoke series 1,000 firefighters march keeps spirits high from DTLA to Contreras LC Bargaining team pulls marathon 24-hour session

On strike for our students: Weekend-Day 6 7 United Teacher • for the latest news: www.utla.net February 8, 2019 UTLA leadership team: We are #UTLAStrong Inspiration from the picket lines.

“I saw hope, I saw joy, and I saw a The fact that this strike changed the public narrative about “We had to win, because losing would belief in the future of teaching” who we are and what we do is so exhilarating. That was have meant the beginning of the end indeed a high point. of public education in LA” In the long runup to our strike, I had the chance to visit The low points have been the frustration felt in many schools and to talk with the members about what negotiations for over 21 months when there was no Being part of this historic movement is absolutely life was on people’s minds. I remember distinctly one small movement, with the district giving out misinformation changing. A month before our strike, I was in New Orleans school where the chapter chair texted me to visit because and attempting to scare and confuse our members. at the Parish School Board meeting where I witnessed four of her newer teachers were saying they weren’t going Contrast that with what we felt on the second day of a vote to turn the last remaining public school in New to strike. I came out to a lunch meeting and listened to negotiations on Friday morning, January 18, when Orleans—McDonogh 35—into a charter school. Being in what was going on. I heard fears about the credential- we heard your cheers from the third floor of City Hall that room was surreal, and as my heart went out to the ing program, about being probationary, and about what where we were working day and night to get an agree- wonderful people of New Orleans, my heart also ached would happen to the special needs students they serve. It ment. When we opened the window, we saw you in for our own city. The thought of our district being broken was a small group discussion, about real fears and issues. all of your beauty and glory, blocks and blocks of up tortured me as I flew back home. Flash forward to Wednesday of the strike, and I knew we had to win, because losing under a rain-soaked popup tent, I saw the entire would have meant the beginning of the staff together at Sycamore Grove park for one end of public education in Los Angeles. of the regional rallies. I recognized the faces of What we did collectively was nothing short those same new teachers who now didn’t have of amazing. We defended public educa- a lick of fear in their eyes or an ounce of doubt tion for all of our students—the ones who in their hearts; I saw hope, I saw joy, and I saw have their lives completely planned out, a belief in the future of teaching and learning. the ones who have yet to figure it out, the That’s a big thing that we did together. We build disenfranchised students—we did this for those big things when we put small pieces to- them. Our strike forced the very people gether, patiently, thoughtfully, and methodically. who were put into power to break up our district to do exactly what we demanded: —Daniel Barnhart reinvest in our schools. I could not be more UTLA Secondary Vice President proud. Our power changed the narrative around privatization, our power brought teachers and parents together, and our power now stands with us, the educators “We are renewed, reenergized, and of Los Angeles. Let’s revel in that power, ready for the fight ahead” let’s continue to build on our victory, and let’s never let that power escape us again. In 1989, I was an 11th-grade student at Los Angeles Center for Enriched Studies, affection- —Gloria Martinez ately known as (LACES), when my teachers UTLA Elementary Vice President went on strike. I defied the rules and I jumped the fence members, parents, students, community in red. It was to walk with those teachers. I knew without a doubt that truly a thrilling sight to behold. they were fighting for me. Then there was the intensity of the final hours of On January 14, 2019, in the torrential downpour, I negotiations when we were racing against the clock “Being on strike with your brothers walked the line at my old high school with friends, former and quite sleep deprived. But the 17 members of the and sisters changes you” teachers, students, parents, and community members. It Bargaining Team knew the seriousness of what we had was an overwhelming feeling to be back and on strike been called to do, and we felt the heavy responsibility This strike was not a strike, it was a movement—a where I began as a youth advocate and activist. and weight of getting a fair contract. I’m so proud of movement that we built with community, students, and I felt a deep sense of connection while walking, singing, how hard the Bargaining Team worked, and the disci- parents. Being on the picket lines with my colleagues, chanting, talking to reporters, and FaceTiming with my pline and focus we maintained throughout the 70-plus family, and complete strangers was one of the greatest mom, Mary, and my son, Giovanni, on that old familiar hours of negotiations. experiences of my life. 18th Street. I am proud to be a LACES Unicorn. Just as the UTLA strike of 2019 is changing the state of As a history teacher and union organizer, I relish these Before we left the school and headed downtown for public education in this nation, it has changed me, and moments. When I was teaching, two of my favorite units the first march, we gathered on the auditorium stairs, 400 UTLA will never be the same. were on MLK and Cesar Chavez. These two historical people strong. We listened for guidance and inspiration figures allowed me to educate our students about these given to us by chapter chair Crystal Dukes, and then a —Arlene Inouye amazing civil rights leaders, their strategies, organizing, student, a parent and I spoke. This was the first time I UTLA Secretary and love for humanity. Being on the picket lines and had spoken in front of a crowd on those steps since 1990, at the rallies and marches made me feel a part of this and it was powerful to come full circle. awesomeness. Knowing that figures like Dolores Huerta Our strike is one for the history books. I am moved “We can take pride in and other leaders were out marching and chanting with by our members’ resolve. I am grateful for the UTLA holding the line” us only added to this amazing and surreal experience. officer team, UTLA staff, and all the support we received My feelings as a union organizer were also at an all- from our affiliates. I am so proud of our union. We are Building our successful strike took years of organizing, time high. Not only were we able to consistently bring renewed, reenergized, and ready for the fight ahead. and that paid off with tight, energetic picket lines across 50,000-plus people to rallies (often in the pouring rain) Most importantly, I am profoundly changed by our 2019 the city. Our lines were strong because everyone was on but I now understand what my union brothers and strike. When we strike, we win! them—amped-up chapter leaders, brand-new teachers, sisters felt in 1989. veterans from the 1989 strike, and folks who weren’t As officers, we visited hundreds of schools, organiz- —Cecily Myart-Cruz known for union activism. ing and preparing to have the most successful strike in UTLA NEA Vice President When I marched at my former school, I was moved to UTLA history. And at every site visit, I would ask for see a retired colleague on the picket line. She said that, and acknowledge folks who struck in ’89. And every retired or not, she wanted to be part of the struggle, and time, without question, they stood up with such pride “This strike changed the public having her out there inspired all of us. and confidence. Now I understand why. narrative about who we are” Many members have told me that their school com- Being on strike with your brothers and sisters changes munity has been strengthened by the bonds built on you. It is an unexplainable experience that everyone in I have experienced many emotions over the past the picket line—with colleagues, with parents, with the the labor movement should one day be able to experi- months and especially over the past two weeks. I was community—as they stood together in the rain, fighting ence. I was lucky to share these moments with my wife, moved to tears walking with you on the picket line. Your for students and for public education. who is also an LAUSD teacher, and my daughter, who joy and empowerment was so vibrant and alive in the We can take pride in holding the line. We are part of walked the line with us. We should all feel proud of what singing, dancing, and chanting that reflected a newfound this transformation and the movement that will change we accomplished and proudly retell this story to our sense of community. Some of you told me that this was the direction of LAUSD. grandchildren and beyond. ¡Si se pudo! the first time you felt appreciated as an educator and teacher … that it was the first time that parents and the —Juan Ramirez —Alex Orozco community personally thanked you for being a teacher. UTLA AFT Vice President UTLA Treasurer 8 FITNESS

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AGREEMENT Autism has been separated into two pro- progress at the table. Our strike dramati- groups, we incorporated demands into (continued from page 4) grams with distinct caps: General Education cally shifted the conversation around the our bargaining package that benefit the (10) and Alternative Curriculum (8). One of the most powerful outcomes of need to regulate charters, which drain $600 community as a whole. Making progress • Two release days a year to complete man- million from LAUSD schools every year. on these social justice issues is a righteous our strike is the overdue attention on our dated assessments On January 29, the LAUSD School Board achievement that strengthens our bonds criminally underfunded public education • District required to provide UTLA with system and the clear community demand real data on special education class sizes voted 5-1 in support of Richard Vladovic’s with parents and the community. to address the problem. and caseloads motion calling on the state for a morato- • Notification prior to the reassignment of rium on new independent charter schools Expanded UTLA rights More resources & support a paraprofessional in LAUSD. Voting on the resolution was • UTLA members must vote before school • Right to bargain over any restructuring part of our contract agreement. is converted to a magnet Early Education teachers • Chapter chairs sign off on whether ad- • Eight-hour work day inclusive of a 30- of instructional delivery service models, ministrator has provided opportunity for minute duty-free lunch which include the composition of special Investment in Community Schools ed classes and material/resource training meaningful staff input before submitting ROC/ROP teachers • Funding for 30 Community Schools over for our members local school waivers • 10 hours of paid prep time each month for the next few years, with additional money Psychologists, PSWs, and PSAs • Substitute and itinerant employees have in- ROC/ROP teachers and UTLA positions creased number of chapter chairs recognized Substitutes • Key staff in up to 30 newly funded com- munity schools by the district and will get same time to speak • Increased continuity rate and reduced time • Appropriate work spaces at every school By offering rich curriculum, parent at staff meetings as school-based members requirements to qualify for extended rate site for all HHS itinerants so that they can engagement, and wraparound services, By expanding UTLA members’ rights, for long-term special ed assignments do their jobs and protect student privacy. Community Schools are the proactive we hit against the privatizers’ agenda to • Expanded protections for late cancellations • Committee to look at workload issues for model for addressing student needs and Adult Education deprofessionalize teaching, give us less of all HHS itinerants, including psycholo- strengthening the public school system. • Improved longevity and part-time leave a voice on campus, and use the magnetiza- gists, PSWs, and PSAs. rights Until now, LAUSD has ignored Commu- tion process to undermine teachers’ rights. • Task force on pay equity and improved nity Schools as a strategy for protecting access to permanent status Stem privatization public education even though they have No reprisals for strike • Matrix pilot at four schools • Notification by December 1 and February been successful in many cities. • No retaliation or reprisals of any kind for 1 each year of all schools threatened with Ethnic studies participating in the strike or other activities co-location so we can organize to fight • More ethnic studies resources for teach- leading up to the strike, such as faculty back against it Common Good demands ers and a committee to explore expansion • Immigrant legal defense: Hotline and legal meeting boycotts • More ability to protect space at co-located • Threshold to qualify for healthcare for Special education schools by creating elected UTLA co-location support for immigrant families • First-time class-size caps for Specific • Green Space: City and LAUSD to remove adult ed and substitute employees is coordinator position, requiring the coordina- lowered to 94 days for this school year Learning Disability (12) and earliest tor’s input in the development of the Shared- bungalows and asphalt in campuses all learners (Early Ed, Preschool for all, over the city and replace with much-need- • Threshold to qualify for substitute conti- Use Agreement, and ensuring coordinator’s nuity rate is lowered to 124 days for this PCC, ETK, PSC) appointment to School Safety Committee ed green space • Class-size and caseload reductions for • Random searches: Pilot program to expand school year • Removal of unused bungalows to create • Strike does not constitute a break in service educators serving severely Intellectually green space for kids, which also limits schools exempt from conducting so-called Disabled students (reduced up to 4) and random searches, instead moving to al- for purposes of retiree healthcare eligibility space for charters to co-locate Visually Impaired students (reduced by 2) ternative proactive programs to provide • Caseload reductions for Audiologists school safety support, such as LA City’s Before we signed the contract agree- (reduced by 35) Many of the issues regarding charter GRYD program. ment, we reached a strike settlement that • For the first time, district must recognize the and charter co-location must be handled protects employees who participated in varied needs of our students with autism. at the state level, but we made important Working with parents and community the strike from repercussions.

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POSTER ART BY ERNESTO YERENA United Teacher • for the latest news: www.utla.net February 8, 2019

cator, Val was an amazing artist, and machine. Our De La Torre ES family asked Passings his artwork will forever be cherished by her to stay home or to please cross the the family, including his three grand- picket line, and she responded, “No! We children, who were his greatest joy. don't cross picket lines!” Every morning she reported to the line and smiled. Our five days were full of love, laughter, cold, rain, and dances to keep our spirits high. On Tuesday, January 22, as we all arrived to our picket line, we were given the horrible news that our dear Norma had passed away of a heart attack. Our hearts were broken. Our students and parents stayed on our picket line, not knowing why we were crying. That same day we learned a tentative Betty Young White contract agreement was reached—a day of victory for public education but a day In 1968, Betty and Larry gave birth of sadness for our fallen member. to their daughter, Michelle, and in De- I am grateful for our bargaining team, cember they moved to California to raise brothers and sisters who sacrificed and their family. In 1975 she gave birth to Val Volo (right) with family Norma Garcia walked the line in 2019, and for the com- their son, Larry White Jr. In California, Harvard Elementary teacher Val Volo Long-time LAUSD teacher Norma Garcia munity support. This is a movement, not a Betty pursued her career in education, passed away on January 14 from a heart passed on January 21, on the way home strike—a movement for change for better and she taught for 20-plus years at attack on his way to the UTLA picket from visiting her daughters in San Diego. public education. As Norma said on the Ramona Elementary, where her phe- lines—a sudden and unexpected passing Norma Garcia was a teacher for LAUSD picket line, “This is our legacy. I walked in nomenal love of teaching was always that has devastated his family and his for 20 years, with 12 of those years spent ’89 too!" Remember, you are part of a legacy. on display. wife, Marina, who is also an LAUSD at George De La Torre Jr. Elementary. She We won a battle—now let's win the war. Betty was predeceased by her parents elementary teacher. loved her students and dedicated her heart and her siblings Lester Gill, Alberta After Val and Marina emigrated from and soul to them, always going above Humbled, Young, Jimmy Young, and Mary Mc- Russia with their two small children, he and beyond. The school has set up a Go Rosa Diaz Cullough. Betty leaves to cherish became an elementary school teacher in Fund Me page at www.gofundme.com/ her memory Larry Sr.; her daughter, LAUSD. Val taught, read to, counseled, norma-garcia. Betty Young White, known to many as Michelle; her son, Larry; her grand- played with, mentored, wrote books for, The chapter chair of De La Torre ES shared “Momma Betty,” passed away on October children, Arielle, Shannan, Quinola and helped young hearts and minds this message about Norma: 18, 2018. (Queenie), Kennedi, and Ryane; great- grow to become the best that they could Betty was born December 8, 1941, to grandchildren Sanaya and an upcoming be. Val spent his entire life enriching the Dear Brothers and Sisters, Deoma A. Young and Bessie Gil. She at- grandson; siblings Alexander Young, lives of parents and their kids. His stu- Norma Garcia was a teacher, mother, tended Second Ward High School and Margaret Young Buford, and Joseph dents absolutely adored him and will grandmother, friend, wife, and loved one graduated from Johnson C. Smith in 1964 Young; and a host of nieces, nephews, miss him dearly. who walked the line with all of us despite in Charlotte, North Carolina. It was there great nephews, cousins, and friends. In addition to being a respected edu- her poor health condition and oxygen that she met Larry E. White Sr. She will be dearly missed.

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14 United Teacher • for the latest news: www.utla.net February 8, 2019

senior high schools throughout LAUSD. Eugenio Miguel Timiraos-Lebredo As a collagist, filmmaker, and provocateur, When Sid retired from trumpet playing, was born in Havana, Cuba, on August Eugene created student films that documented he enjoyed a second career as an English 16, 1955, the second child of Vicente Ti- the early years of the Los Angeles punk scene, teacher at Birmingham High School. miraos-Lopez and Dolores Petronila Oc- performances by jazz musicians who were Sid was preceded in death by parents tavita Lebredo-Lopez. In the aftermath among his personal heroes, and a year’s worth Natt and Sarah Lazar and sister Shirley of the Castro revolution, he fled with his of sunsets recorded by time-lapse photography Van Bourg. He is survived by his wife family to the United States in July 1963. from a window in Silver Lake. He received a of 62 years, Eloise; daughters Megan His family settled in Alhambra, where number of awards for his films and videos, Schowengerdt (Greg), Andrea Lazar, and Eugene excelled academically at Emery including one from B’nai B’rith for Etiquette With Nancy Lazar (Mark Schmidt); grand- Park Elementary and Alhambra High Eugene, a withering political satire. From 1979 to children Katie Schowengerdt (Stephanie School. He graduated from Occidental 1986 his work was shown in numerous arthouse Gilbert) and Doug Schowengerdt; and College in 1977 with a bachelor of arts theaters and museums, including a closed-circuit nieces, nephews, and friends. degree in political science. As a graduate gallery exhibition at the Ward-Nasse Gallery in student at the UCLA Film School, he was New York. In January 2012 his work was shown assistant to filmmaker Shirley Clarke in at a retrospective of punk video curated by the Sidney Marvin Lazar experimental video production. In 1984 Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles. he earned a master of fine arts degree in Eugene was a relentless record collector Talented musician, dedicated teacher, theatre arts: film and video production. who took pride in his nearly complete set of devoted husband, beloved father, In June 1995, Eugene entered the LAUSD the recordings of Duke Ellington as well as grandfather, uncle, and friend, Sidney Teaching Intern Program and in September his impressive and discriminating collection Marvin Lazar passed away at home at of that year he was assigned to a position at of hard bop and post-bop artists such as Lee the age of 92. the 32nd Street/USC Visual and Performing Morgan and Randy Weston. Sidney was born and raised in Los Arts Magnet School. His dedication to teach- He collected artwork by contemporary local Angeles, attended LA High School, and then ing literacy coupled with his own interest in artists and maintained a magnificent library of graduated, cum laude, from USC. He later visual and performing arts and culture was art books, centered on the first half of the 20th received his M.A. from CSU Northridge. an excellent fit for his assignment at 32nd century. Over the years, he published more than A professional musician from the age of Street. He eagerly collaborated with col- 50 issues of his “Dadazine” Libertinage, a highly 16, Sid played the trumpet for more than 45 leagues as well as with USC faculty to host personal collage of news photos, wisecracks, years. He worked with many of the coun- literary workshops for his students. Every and song lyrics popular and unpopular, signed school year Eugene and his students enthu- with his perpetual pseudonym Fazul Reet. try’s leading conductors and orchestras, Eugene Timiraos and played first trumpet with both the LA siastically participated in student art pro- In recent years Eugene suffered from a number Philharmonic and the Glendale Symphony Eugene Timiraos passed peacefully in his grams at the Los Angeles County Museum of vexing health issues and was lovingly support- for many years. He played on hundreds of sleep at his Los Feliz home on December of Art and the Museum of Contemporary ed by his family and loyal friends, including his movies, notably High Noon (Academy Award 24, 2018, at the age of 63. He was a person Art. Eugene kept meticulous records of each companion, Regina Nunley. Eugene is survived for music) and The Godfather (I and II), includ- of nearly boundless curiosity, humor, and academic year, including numerous letters by his brother and sister-in-law, Vicente and ing the hauntingly beautiful trumpet solo. enthusiasm. He despised unjust authority, of commendation from grateful parents. Carol Timiraos of Alhambra; by his nephew, Alex In addition to being a musician, Sid was nursed an amused contempt for hypocrisy Outside the classroom, Eugene served as the Timiraos of Los Angeles; and by his nephew Nick always a teacher. He taught the trumpet and pretension, and was largely indifferent UTLA chapter chair from 1997 through 2010. Timiraos of Washington, D.C., his wife Mallie, to individual students for many years at to commercial success or worldly prestige. He remained fully committed and dedicated and their twin daughters. Those who loved him both Immaculate Heart College & UCLA, He was kind hearted and profoundly loyal to teaching, primarily fourth-grade classes, and were loved by him grieve his passing and and was a substitute teacher at junior and to his family and friends. until his premature retirement in 2014. will cherish his presence in their lives.

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15 United Teacher • for the latest news: www.utla.net February 8, 2019 Note from the UTLA-R President The 2019 strike: A historical perspective LISA WEINGARTEN By John Perez into a system of unaccountable privatized UTLA-Retired President schools funded with public money. Time for a short history lesson: The Mas- On January 22, our active colleagues sachusetts Bay Colony law of 1642 and the voted for a contract that ended the most Old Deluder Satan Act of 1647 in essence important and significant strike in UTLA invented public education. These laws history. UTLA-Retired members helped required townships to provide a public secure this victory by being on the picket school to teach all kids how to read, so lines and at the demonstrations and they could read the Bible and the public marches. In the pouring rain we were there laws. Most countries in the world have side by side with our active colleagues, their copied the U.S. and established a public students, and their parents. We stood up for school system. As public education grew, the profession that had been our life’s work. so too did the idea that the local commu- For many of us this was our third UTLA nity through democratic elections should strike. In 1970 we fought to establish our control public education. But today there is union and we demanded smaller classes a movement to privatize public education and more teachers, nurses, counselors, and and take it out of the democratic realm librarians in the schools that served our and place this bedrock of our society into poorest students—sound familiar? In 1989 private hands. They would make public we fought for salaries to keep our members education a commodity transaction like in the district and for School-Based Manage- buying a car. When you purchase a car, ment so that our members and the parents they hand you the keys but not a ballot for of our students would have a say in the the board of directors of the car company. schools that we worked in and that parents Likewise, when a parent puts their kid in sent their kids to—sound familiar? And in a charter school, they may get a thank-you 2019 we helped our active colleagues fight letter from the school but they rarely have Retired teachers— including John Perez, third from right—on the line during our strike. for smaller classes, more nurses, counselors, a say, through elections, on who is on the librarians, less testing, and better pay—yes, board of directors of the charter school. In public education, invented in our country, of us fought the righteous fight to preserve it does sound familiar. While the battles were true public education, the parents vote for was and is at stake. Our active colleagues public schools for all future generations. The similar, this strike is more important and sig- who sits on the school board and if a parent struck not just for pay or more support per- existential component to this strike is why nificant because of the context of the strug- doesn’t like what the school board is doing, sonnel, but also to protect a truly American it was the most significant in UTLA history. gle. In 1970 and 1989 we fought only against they can run for office and if elected change institution—public education, education for This fight, in which retired teachers partici- an intransigent district. Today Eli Broad and the course of the school district. This is not all no matter what their station in life. We pated, said we will DEFEND public educa- the privatizers who want to destroy public what happens in privatized education. and our active colleagues understand what tion for all students, now and in the future. education are out in full force, and their goal The 2019 strike was against this backdrop. this fight is about, and that is why 2019 is is to transform our public education system The existential threat to the whole system of different from 1970 and 1989. Together all John can be reached at [email protected].

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16 United Teacher • for the latest news: www.utla.net February 8, 2019

GRAPEVINE to remove barriers to creativity and unleash it teachers. Subjects include Steam Everyday social well-being of students and themselves. (continued from page 23) through play, humor, and games. Come and for Everyone, NGSS for All, Cognitively The course reaches pre-K-5th grades (modifi- practice how to minimize criticism and create Guided Instruction Math, and Arts Inte- cations for secondary). No prior yoga experi- curriculum, two visits to MOCA, and healthy and safe spaces where children can gration: Music. These LAUSD-approved ence is required. Meets Common Core, PE & family involvement opportunities. One make mistakes, fail, and experiment in your professional development courses provide Health Standards. One salary point available. salary point available for first-year class. Workshop fee is $210. Dates are Febru- valuable training to help teachers improve The next session is February 16, 17, 23, and participants. Registration deadline: April ary 15 (online session, 6-7 p.m.), February their knowledge, understanding, and 24 (in-person). Please email Kelly Wood for 26 (early submission recommended). For 16 and 17 (face-to-face sessions, 10 a.m.-4:30 ability to promote STEAM education in details: [email protected] or call 323-240- more information and to register, please p.m.), and February 22 (online session, 6-7 the classroom. Sign up at at www.educa- 8711. See details: https://school-yoga.org/ visit moca.org/education/cas. If you have p.m.). LAUSD salary points available (course tion4equity.com/steam. training. Please inquire for scholarships. additional questions, please email jhoel@ number #A-11-118). To register or for more moca.org or call 213-621-1706. info, go to http://bit.ly/playK-12. Salary point classes on Capably Disabled Committee at cultural competency Abilities Expo on February 23 Salary point class on ukulele PD seminars on China “Valuing Difference” and “Cultural Join Capably Disabled Committee Musicians and non-musicians are and East Asia Competency” are interactive seminars on members at their meeting Saturday, Feb- welcome at “Ukulele for Teachers,” taught The USC U.S.-China Institute is holding cultural diversity, family history, media and ruary 23, at the Abilities Expo: Los Angeles at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, in Altade- two professional development seminars. societal impacts, and effective communica- Convention Center, 1201 South Figueroa na. The class is a fun, basic introduction to Both seminars are free. For more info, see tions. The salary point workshops cover Street, LA. The Expo (running Friday to ukulele, taught by LAUSD Teacher of the links below or call 213-821-4382. the important role your own culture plays Sunday) has free goodies, lots of info, in- Year Bartt Warburton. This is LAUSD’s only • East Asia: Origins To 1800 (in-person in day-to-day interactions and includes teresting workshops, the latest tech and authorized ukulele salary point class, and at USC) interactive exercises in which participants resources, and amazing performances by it’s geared especially for teachers. Learn March 2 – April 27, 2019 review various issues from a variety of talented capably disabled people. Register to use ukulele in your lessons, for every https://china.usc.edu/seminars/east-asia- viewpoints. The next session for “Valuing online to speed up entrance: www.abili- grade level and every content area. The origins-1800-spring-2019 Difference” is February 23 and 24 and the ties.com/losangeles/ (registration is free). class meets three Saturdays, March 9, 16, Benefits: $250 stipend and 2 LAUSD next session for “Cultural Competency” is On Saturday, the UTLA Capably Disabled and 23, from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The class salary points March 10 and 17 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Committee will meet at the back food court fee is $149 and you get one salary point. • Contemporary China (online) fee for each is $95. Location: 8339 W. Third from 1 to 2. Bring your parking ticket to Bartt provides everything: lessons, beginner February 19 - March 26, 2019 Street, L.A., CA 90048. One multicultural get committee reimbursement plus $12 for chord/song charts, booklets, instruments https://china.usc.edu/seminars/online-sem- salary point available. For more informa- lunch. Capably Disabled Teachers Members’ (with prior arrangements), video lessons, a inar-contemporary-china tion or to register, call Kari Bower at 323- Committee Chair Janis Lukstein can be con- webpage to share ideas, and lots of loving Salary points not available, but participants 653-3332 or email [email protected]. tacted at [email protected] for more info. support. Time to make lesson plans during are eligible for 4 CEUs from USC Rossier. class too. Register online at Bartt.net, where SCHOOL Kids Yoga you’ll also find a lot more info about this STEAM Professional & Mindfulness Training ECE Board election class. Email/text questions to Bartt@Bartt. Development Classes Learn the classroom-proven calming net or call/text 818-568-3595. Encouraging student interest in Science, methods of SCHOOL Kids Yoga and Mind- Cleveland EEC teacher Teri Harnik Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math- fulness specifically designed for public school has been elected to the open seat on the Salary point workshop ematics (STEAM) is becoming more and students and teachers. Kelly Wood, expert UTLA Board of Directors, representing on play & creativity more important, which is why Educa- kids yoga teacher, has taught weekly in Early Childhood Education. Her elec- In the workshop “Play, Creativity & Inno- tion4Equity has created four courses to LAUSD for over 17 years. Educators gain tools tion has been certified by the board. vation K-12,” teacher leaders will learn how advance STEAM education for LAUSD to improve physical, mental, emotional, and

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17 United Teacher • for the latest news: www.utla.net February 8, 2019

Involvement opportunity CTA State Council Election CTA State Council Elections Notice for 2020-22 Term Are you interested in representing UTLA/NEA members at the state level? CTA (California Teachers Association) State Council, a policy-making body that meets By Debby Schneider & Laura Carls mileage, and food costs. Meetings begin at 9 quarterly, has openings for representatives to fill expired and unexpired terms. If UTLA/NEA Election Committee a.m. Saturday, 7:15 a.m. Sunday, and usually you wish to run for one of these positions, complete and return the self-nomination end around 4 p.m. both days. Subcommittee form by U.S. mail to UTLA/NEA VP Cecily Myart-Cruz at UTLA. The form must be UTLA/NEA members will elect CTA meetings on Friday evenings and voluntary received by 5:00 p.m. on March 14, 2019. The election will be held at the April 3, State Council representatives for both caucus meetings before and after the general 2019, Area meetings. For those members who cannot vote at their Area meetings, expired and unexpired terms at the April weekend meeting times can enrich the rep- voting will also be held at the UTLA building from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on April 3, 2019. 3 Area meetings. These delegates will join resentative’s knowledge of issues facing the other UTLA representatives when the California educators. UTLA del­egates are Self-Nomination Form council begins for the 2019-20 school year. rewarded for their time and effort by getting a The State Council acts as CTA’s policy- chance to make a statewide difference in edu- Name making body, meeting four times a year. cation. As a delegate, it is your responsibility Each representative is expected to serve on to attend Service Center Council meetings on Employee number a standing com­mittee, which debates busi- March 25 and May 28. ness items involving academic freedom, If you find the idea of participating on a Address retire­ment, civil rights, political action, statewide level intriguing, fill out and mail teachers’ rights, and statewide nego­tiation in the self-nomination form on this page to City Zip issues. State Council representatives­ also run for CTA State Council. Forms are due by vote for CTA’s statewide officers. In the March 14 via U.S. mail (no faxes or emails). Home phone 2019-20 school year, all State Council meet- Forms may also be dropped off at UTLA ings will be held in Los Angeles. headquarters­ on the 10th floor (attention: Non-LAUSD email address All necessary expenses for represen­ Cecily Myart-Cruz, UTLA/NEA VP) during tatives are covered by CTA, including hotel, regular business hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. School

School Phone CTA State Council I am running for Expired Term (Three-Year Term) Unexpired Term I certify that below is the signature of the candidate whose name appears above.

Year-Round Absentee Ballot Request Signature Date (Required) I am requesting an absentee ballot for the CTA State Council Election. Return this request to UTLA/NEA VP Cecily Myart-Cruz by 5:00 p.m., March 14, My vote will correspond to CTA’s election guidelines, which allow for voting by mail for 2019, via U.S. mail to UTLA, 3303 Wilshire Blvd., 10th Floor, Los Angeles, CA CTA members on formal leave. This request must be received by 5:00 p.m., March 90010. Forms may also be dropped off at UTLA headquarters on the 10th floor 14, 2019, by U.S. mail to UTLA, 3303 Wilshire Blvd., 10th Floor, Los Angeles, CA during regular business hours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (attention: Cecily Myart-Cruz). 90010, Attn: Cecily Myart-Cruz UTLA/NEA VP. I understand that my request will be NO FAXES OR EMAILS. checked for accuracy by election committee members. Absentee ballots will be mailed Form must be received by UTLA by March 14, 2019. March 22, 2019, and must be received via U.S. mail by 5:00 p.m., April 3, 2019.

Name

Employee number CTA State Council election timeline:

Address Expired and unexpired terms

City Zip February 8, March 8: Nomination April 15: Deadline to submit election forms, timeline, absentee ballot request challenge in writing to Cecily Myart- Home phone forms in UNITED TEACHER. Cruz, UTLA/NEA Vice President, pro- vided a runoff election is not required. Non-LAUSD email address March 14: Self-nomination forms and Please contact Vivian Vega for appropri- absentee ballot requests due to UTLA ate form at 213-368-6259. School building by 5 p.m. by U.S. mail (no faxes or e-mails). Forms may also be April 25: Absentee ballot for run-off sent. School Phone dropped off at UTLA headquarters (see the receptionist on the 10th floor) May 22: Runoff election, if needed, at UTLA area (Circle one) N S E W C VE VW H during regular business hours from 9 Area meetings and at UTLA headquar- ters from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Absentee ballot requested for: a.m. to 5 p.m. May 22: Deadline for absentee ballots April 3 May 22 March 15: Letters sent out acknowl- edging receipt of nomination forms. to be received back by U.S. mail (no Check one: CTA/NEA Board member Formal LAUSD leave faxes or emails). March 22: Absentee ballots sent out. I hereby declare that the above information is accurate. May 24: Election Committee meets at April 3: Elections at all UTLA area 9 a.m. to count all ballots. Letters sent meetings and at UTLA headquarters to winners and results will be posted from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at www.utla.net by the end of the next Signature Date business day. Those who are not elected April 3: Absentee ballots due back to delegates will become alternates. Return this request to UTLA/NEA VP Cecily Myart-Cruz by 5:00 p.m., March 14, UTLA building by 5 p.m. by US mail June 3: Final date for challenges to be 2019, via U.S. mail to UTLA, 3303 Wilshire Blvd., 10th Floor, Los Angeles, CA only (no faxes or emails). submitted in writing to Cecily Myart- 90010. Forms may also be dropped off at UTLA headquarters on the 10th floor April 5: Area and absentee ballots Cruz, UTLA/NEA Vice President, pro- (attention: Cecily Myart-Cruz, UTLA/NEA VP) during regular business hours from counted, 9 a.m. Letters sent to winners vided additional runoff election is not 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. NO FAXES OR EMAILS. and results will be posted at www.utla. required. Please contact Vivian Vega Form must be received by UTLA by March 14, 2019. net by the end of the next business day. for appropriate form at 213-368-6259.

18 United Teacher • for the latest news: www.utla.net February 8, 2019

CTA State Council delegates LAUSD HUMAN RESOURCES with terms expiring in 2019 Presents Robin Branch-Scott L. Cynthia Matthews Tomas Flores Maria Miranda Arlene Inouye Cheryl Ortega REDUCED WORKLOAD INFORMATION MEETING WHO awards: A chance to honor 9:00 A.M. TO 10:30 A.M. someone you know SATURDAY, February 23, 2019 Nominations due February 25. BEAUDRY BUILDING, 15TH FLOOR

Ever wonder how you can recognize a • The WHO State Award is for active colleague or chapter chair who has shown UTLA/NEA members who have given out- Reduced Workload is a leave granted by LAUSD and CalSTRS. true leadership by going above and beyond standing service in support of UTLA/NEA the call of duty to help members at your and its members at the state or national site? Or maybe a member who is involved levels of UTLA, CTA, and NEA. All new applicants must meet the following in the Area steering committee or House of • The UTLA/NEA Community Gold Award minimum requirements by July 1, 2019: Representatives and has dedicated time to may be awarded to any person or organiza- speak to our members, help where needed, tion whose leadership, actions, and support • 55 years of age and walk that mile or two for the good of all have demonstrated that the person or orga- our members? Or what about that colleague nization is a true friend of public education, • 10 years of full-time service with LAUSD, who has spoken about professional matters educators, or students and merits UTLA/ the last five of which are continuous at the state or national level to make sure NEA recognition of their accomplishments. our voices are heard? The WHO Awards Committee looks forward • HR and CalSTRS approval Here is your chance to recognize them to honoring special members who you know by nominating them for the We Honor are doing what it takes to make us stronger, Ours (“WHO”) awards, which are given keep us united, and stand for the good of all. Space is limited to 25 participants. Please email Karen Castro at karen. annually in these categories: [email protected] to RSVP and you will receive an email confirmation. • The WHO Local Award is for active Deadline for nominations is February 25. UTLA/NEA members who have given Nomination forms are posted at utla.net. Registration deadline is February 20, 2019. outstanding service in support of UTLA/ Recipients will be honored at a dinner on NEA and its members. April 26.

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19 United Teacher • for the latest news: www.utla.net February 8, 2019 COMMITTEE EVENTS

UTLA honors and respects the many years you have given

to your profession and our students and invites you to celebrate at the 2019 RetirementDinnerDance Saturday, May 18, 2019 Luminarias

If you are retiring between July 1, 2018 and June 30, 2019, request a formal invitation online at www.utla.net/events/2019-retirement-dinner-dance or complete coupon below and mail before April 5, 2019 to UTLA, Attn: Rosa Beasley, 3303 Wilshire Blvd., 10th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90010. For more

information, contact Rosa Beasley at [email protected]

FORMAL INVITATION REQUEST FORM Limited Seating. Reservations Required Emp.#______Name ______Address ______State______Zip______City ______(month) (year) Phone ( )______Retirement Date:______/ ______

School/Retiring Site ______Email address (non-LAUSD)______

nce featuring a: E’S Multicultural PD Confere ASIAN PACIFIC COMMITTE ” “BUS TRIP TO MANZANAR Saturday, April 27, 2019 6 am – 9:30 pm (details below)WORKSHOP

SESSIONS (5): Wednesday, December 12, 2018 4 pm - 6:00 pm (Includes light dinner & instructional materials) Wednesday, February 6, 2019 4 pm - 6:00 pm (Includes light dinner & instructional materials) 7:30 am -3 pm Saturday, March 9, 2019 (Includes light breakfast, lunch, & instructional materials) 4:30 pm - 8:00 pm Monday, April 22, 2019 (Includes light dinner & instructional materials) 4 pm - 6:00 pm Wednesday, May 8, 2019 (Includes light dinner & instructional materials) UTLA Headquarters Parking structure is off Berendo Angeles 2 blocks west of Vermont Ave. at Berendo. 3303 Wilshire Blvd., Los th Pilgrimage Asian Pacific Committee: 50 Anniversary NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE TRIP TO MANZANAR materials & point credit information) BUS harter bus transportation, conference (Includes lunch/dinner, snacks, c th 6 AM – 9:00 PM Saturday, April 27 , 2019 Time: 2nd 170 Frwy commuter parking st UTLA Parking Lot Bus pick up: 1 St, east of 170 frwy OR @ Oxnard 3303 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles

Deadline: April 13, 2019 Cost: $150.00 (2 salary points) or $75 (Pilgrimage only) - participants for salary points. Bus max: 47 participants. Enrollment: Min. 25 13, 2019 No bus trip refunds after April l Specific Conference. available. Article 3.3 Multicultura Approved, two salary points 2019 and Pre-trip workshop Monday, LAUSD e Pilgrimage on Saturday April 27, r salary points, you must attend th regarding salary points/payment. To qualify fo presenters (bottom of flyer) for any questions April 22, 2019 4:30 pm – 8 pm Contact and then enter Go to UTLA.net, click on CALENDAR, How to register on-line: EVENT. Click "Manzanar" in SEARCH to reserve your space. on-line registration. Register on-line This will take you to the UTLA (email is preferred). (213)368-6229 or [email protected] erence Registration questions to Jenny Lam 2019 Manzanar Conf in the subject bar, or text: (818) 642-0981 Rosie [email protected] Put “manzanar” Presenter contact: Diane Newell: Van Zyl: [email protected]

Please Post

20 United Teacher • for the latest news: www.utla.net February 8, 2019

STRS preretirement workshops Free workshops are open to all CalSTRS members.

All UTLA members are encouraged to attend a preretirement workshop at least three times during their career in order to plan for retirement security: early in their career, again just prior to age 50, and one year prior to retirement. CalSTRS (the California State Teachers’ Retirement System) and the district are sponsoring a series of preretirement workshops for this school year. Informa- tion will be provided regarding the calculation of retirement allowance, LAUSD 457(b) supplemental savings plan, post-retirement information, and more. Time will be provided at the end of the workshop presentation for questions and answers. See reservation information below. The workshops are individual meetings (not a series). Dates and locations All workshops are from 4 to 5:30 p.m. February 14, 2019 (Thursday) April 11, 2019 (Thursday) Burbank Middle School (Room A-106) Nevin Elementary (Auditorium) 6460 North Figueroa Street 1569 E. 32nd. St. Los Angeles, CA 90042 Los Angeles, CA 90011

February 28, 2019 (Thursday) May 2, 2019 (Thursday) Bell HS (Student Cafeteria) Broad Elementary (Auditorium) 4328 Bell Ave. 24815 Broad Ave. Bell, CA 90201 Wilmington, CA 90744

March 14, 2019 (Thursday) May 9, 2019 (Thursday) Sheridan St Elementary (Auditorium) Noble Elementary (Auditorium) 416 North Cornwell Street 8329 Noble Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90033 North Hills, CA 91343

March 21, 2019 (Thursday) How to register: CalSTRS is ask- Eagle Rock High School (Student Dining ing that you register for the work- Room) shop you wish to attend through 1750 Yosemite Drive their website: http://resources.cal- Los Angeles, CA 90041 strs.com/workshop_registration/ index.aspx.

21 United Teacher • for the latest news: www.utla.net February 8, 2019

UTLA CLASSIFIEDS

CLASSIFIED AND DISPLAY AD POLICY: UNITED TEACHER will not accept ads for legal services in the areas of worker’s compensation or personal injury; nor advertising for tobacco or alcoholic beverages; nor advertising deemed misleading or offensive ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES to members; nor advertising inconsistent with the programs and purposes of United Are you ready for a new challenge? Teachers Los Angeles. Are you ready for a position outside the classroom? Are you interested in administration?

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FOR INFORMATION CONTACT: How To Place Your UT Classified Ad Department of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies Job share & LAUSD employment ads are FREE California State University, Northridge (818) 677- 2591 Print your ad from your computer or use a typewriter. Count the number of words in your http://www.csun.edu/coe/elps ad. Area code and telephone number count as one word. Email and web address count as one word. Street address counts as one word. City and state, including zip code, count as one word. Abbreviations and numbers are considered words and are charged individually. The classified ad rate is $1.50 per word for each time your ad runs (there is no charge for

LAUSD job share/employment available ads). Multiply the number of words in your ad by

$1.50. This is the cost for running your ad one time in UNITED TEACHER. If you’re run- ning your ad in more than one issue, multiply the one-time total by the number of issues you wish the ad to appear. We have a ten word minimum ($15.00). All ads are payable in advance by check or money order. Please make check payable to UTLA. The deadline to receive your classified ad at the UTLA Communications Dept. is noon on the Monday that falls two weeks prior to the publication date. Any questions? Call 213-637-5173 or email Laura Aldana at [email protected]. Mail ad and payment to Classifieds, UNITED TEACHER, 3303 Wilshire Blvd., 10th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90010. Union dues and tax deductions For tax years 2018 through 2025, union dues are no longer deductible on your federal income tax return, even if itemized deductions are taken. This is a result of the tax re- form bill signed into law on December 22, 2017. Consult your tax advisor to confirm.

ESTATE PLANNING Liza Luna-Chan Want to avoid probate? Real Estate Agent Seeking peace of mind? Don’t do it yourself. Let a fellow teacher be your lawyer. Sheila Bayne is a full time teacher with LAUSD and has been an active We’ve proudly cared for Union members and families for over 20 years! member of the California Bar for over 30 years. Complete Estate Planning Package: At Blue Hills Dental, your oral health is n Living Trust our first priority! We offer full service n Living Will/Advance Health Care Directives dental care for your whole family from n Power of Attorney exams and cleanings to cosmetic and n Trust Transfer Deeds complex care such as: n Pour-over Will and supporting documents 25 years home investing experience. n Personal consultation 19 years marketing experience. Discount for UTLA Members: Specialize in working with teachers 5 Convenient Los Angeles Locations! & school staff. Cudahy Panorama City 7903 Atlantic Ave, Ste G 7942 Van Nuys Blvd I find the best lenders & homebuyer Long Beach West Covina $795 assistance programs. 2306 E 7th St 1208 W Francisquito Ave, (Joint trust for spouses: $ 1195) Palmdale Ste E n n Also: Probate Conservatorships Liza Luna-Chan 2140 E Palmdale Blvd CONTACT THE LAW OFFICES OF SHEILA BAYNE (323) 533-3060 (323) 863-5395 at 310-435-8710 [email protected] Hablamos Español #BlueHillsDentalSmiles or e-mail: [email protected] *Invisalign discount is applied to regular full price treatment and may not apply to contracted insurance plans. State Bar #123801 BRE# 01931120 22 United Teacher • for the latest news: www.utla.net February 8, 2019 UNITED TEACHER GRAPEVINE Free educator workshop at the wide range of techniques in clay. Creativity Helping Students Write Through Conflict” problem-solving, collaboration, and civic Fowler Museum at UCLA and originality are tapped as the class creates February 23-24 literacy skills that underlie all Common The Fowler Museum is holding a free ed- objects such as trays, bowls, cups, boxes and Led by creative writers with backgrounds Core standards. “Visual Art and Design,” ucator workshop, “Presenting Our Identi- tiles through hand-building techniques and working in community and restorative the final strand of the four-strand series, ties: Examining Attire and Adornment in wheel throwing. Teachers interested in class- justice in public school classrooms, this will take place on four Saturdays: March Borneo,” on Saturday, March 2, from 10 a.m. room applications are welcome, and ideas workshop offers teachers ways to engage 16, 23, 30 and April 6, 2019, from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. During this half-day workshop at for integration will be shared. Designed for class content and help students to form and to 4:30 p.m. Fee: $100. No prior experience the Fowler Museum at UCLA, educators all skill levels; more experienced students share ideas in communicative and empathic in the arts is required. Teachers can earn up are invited to explore interdisciplinary and may work on their own ideas with guidance. ways. Teachers will practice skills related to two salary points (details available upon multicultural connections between visual Dates: Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., February to traditional speaking-to-share and gain registration). To sign up, go to www.skirball. art and the “presentation of self,” a process 9, 16, 23; March 2, 9, 16, 30; and April 13. new instructional strategies that promote org/education/for-teachers. Questions? by which we each express our layered iden- Tuition is $250 with additional $50 materials critical writing and thinking skills. Email [email protected]. tities to those around us. The workshop fee. Due to the strike, prorated late registra- Sign up at http://bit.ly/restorativewords begins with a curatorial presentation on the tion can be accepted. Payment plans are also • “The East L.A. Blowout Backlash: Helping “Creativity in the Classroom” customary attire of the indigenous peoples available for strike-affected LAUSD teachers. Students Read Primary Sources” salary point workshop series of the island of Borneo in Southeast Asia. Call or email for details. Location: Inner-City March 9-10 at Inner-City Arts These objects will contextualize the after- Arts Campus, 720 Kohler St., Los Angeles, CA This workshop focuses on a less-exam- Inner-City Arts, an oasis of creativity in noon’s hands-on art-making workshop, 90021. For more information or to register: ined aspect of this watershed moment in downtown Los Angeles, provides experi- in which educators will define the term www.inner-cityarts.org/professionaldevel- Mexican American history. Using primary ential training for pre-K-12 teachers in the “identity” before individually creating a opment or contact Zoë Tomasello at PD@ sources, participants will look at the ways visual and performing arts through its small item of adornment. Open to K-12 inner-cityarts.org, 213-627-9621, ext. 114. various L.A. communities reacted to the dis- program “Creativity in the Classroom: educators of all backgrounds. Enrollment is ruptive and potentially unsettling prospect Transforming Practice.” Offered each fall limited; free parking provided to registered Salary point classes on restorative of an emergent, politicized Chicano move- and spring, the workshops provide class- attendees, and LAUSD educators are eli- practices and the East LA Blowouts ment in the late 1960s. Participants will room teachers and teaching artists with gible for 24.25 PD hours. Advance registra- Bard MAT: LA and Educators for These practice developing and using authentic meaningful strategies to incorporate the tion is required; register at fowler.ucla.edu/ Times are offering two salary point classes questions, scaffolding student reading of visual and performing arts into the class- professional-development-workshops. in Spring 2019. Sessions run from 9 a.m. primary sources as informative texts, and room curriculum in support of student to 5 p.m. at the Immanuel Presbyterian promoting the use of informal writing to achievement. Shared learning is integrated Inner-City Arts clay workshop Church, across from the UTLA building. engage deeper with such historical content. into every class, and participants, paired In “Adults Creating in Clay,” Michelle The fee for each session is $150. Sign up at http://bit.ly/eastlablowout with same-grade buddies, also share class- Solorio will guide participants through a • “Restorative Words, Restorative Practices: room experiences between Saturday ses- Arts PD at the Skirball sions. The series will take place on five “Teaching Our World Through the Arts” Saturdays: March 9, March 16, March 23, is a professional development program April 6, and May 4, each day from 8:30 offered by the Skirball Cultural Center that a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Fee is $250. Discount- prepares K-grade 12 teachers to integrate ed tuition for group attendance or through film, dance, visual arts, theater, and music work-study is available. Participants may into core curricula. The program introduces earn two salary points. The Creativity in arts-integration methods that foster student the Classroom Series is eligible for two development of critical thinking, creative LAUSD salary points. For more informa- tion, see the ad in this issue. Register at inner-cityarts.org/citc.

Contemporary Art Start at MOCA 2019-20 Join an energized community of third- to 12th-grade teachers in MOCA’s yearlong classroom partnership program, Contemporary Art Start. CAS supports both student and teacher growth through sustained PD that starts in the summer, standards-aligned classroom (continued on page 17)

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