AFT in the clear on House investigation on schools reopening during the pandemic

Despite a lengthy and partisan investigation, conservatives on the House Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Pandemic have found no evidence that the nation’s largest teachers unions had undue influence over the Biden administration's guidance on reopening schools during the COVID-19 pandemic.

While the four-month investigation included the review of over 3,000 pages of documents and six hours of interviews with AFT President Randi Weingarten, the subcommittee failed to find anything of merit to warrant their allegations.

“The right wing’s contorted attempt to blame educators and their unions for the effects of pandemic was both wrong on the facts and a callous undermining of the very people who tried to help children and families in their darkest hour,” Weingarten told POLITICO in a statement. “Rather than playing political games, the majority should be focused on helping us address learning loss, literacy and loneliness…”

CFT Back to School tour kicks off next week with the Jefferson AFT Federation of Teachers

CFT President Jeff Freitas, Secretary Treasurer Lacy Barnes, Vice President Juan Ramirez, and other elected officers of CFT will begin a statewide back to school tour starting next Monday with the Jefferson AFT Federation of Teachers. Over the course of several weeks CFT leaders will visit local unions from every division and in every corner of the state to listen to and learn from rank-and-file educators and classified professionals on what they need to be successful this coming school year.

Follow along on CFT socials by following @cftunion or through the hashtag #CFTBacktoSchool

Read the 2023-2024 CFT research brief on the California state budget

Governor Newsom and the state Legislature came to an agreement in late June on a state budget for 2023-24 that includes $225 billion in general fund expenditures while addressing a $31.7 billion deficit. While the budget protects public education with ongoing funding, there is still much work to be done to address critical issues facing our schools – including addressing the public education staffing crisis.

For a deep analysis of the budget, read CFT’s state budget research brief.

Take action: Write a letter to your local paper to defend against cuts to school funding

Republicans in congress are proposing an appropriations bill that would make devastating cuts to K-12 education, early childhood education and vital public health programs.

Click here to take action and let your voice be heard.

Union made back to school shopping list

With a new school year right around the corner, families are embarking on another season of back to school shopping. Before you set out to buy supplies, clothes and more, make sure to review Labor 411’s union made back to school shopping list.

In Solidarity

The writers' strike is going strong. Check out their picket schedule and show your support!