Remember to cast your ballot and vote your values
CFT members are reliable voters because we understand how important it is to vote for candidates and initiatives that support public education and working families. But once again the stakes are high in another pivotal election. And it is up to all of us to take the time to get our ballots in.
Up and down the ballot there are critical races, from swing congressional districts to local school board elections where the choice is clear who will be there for our schools and our students. At the state level this includes re-electing public school champion Tony Thurmond, who has done great work as Superintendent of Public Instruction to support our students and our schools as we navigated the pandemic, and who has been instrumental in holding charter schools accountable. It also includes electing progressive champion Malia Cohen to become the next state controller.
Before you vote, make sure to check out CFT’s complete list of statewide endorsements, which includes our recommendations on statewide ballot initiatives. And for recommendations for local races, take a look at the CFT Educators Choice Voter Guide.
Thanks again to all those CFT members who are working with their local unions and labor councils to volunteer for the election, including the Palomar Faculty Federation (pictured above). Your volunteer efforts are critical to our success and every effort counts. Ready to volunteer? Sign up for a shift with your local labor council.
Online mental health and wellness training – November 16 at 4:00 p.m.
All CFT members are welcome at our free mental health and wellness training on November 16 from 4-5:30 p.m. During the CFT Back to School Tour mental health concerns were often top of mind for teachers and school workers. The stress and strain of the pandemic has not only affected our students, but it has also taken a toll on our lives and health. This training seeks to address many of the issues brought up during the tour, and includes strategies, resources, and important information for all to know.
For more information, including a link to register, click here.
Applications open for Raoul Teilhet Scholarships for children and dependents of CFT members
Through this benefit of membership, the CFT has helped hundreds of students reach their higher education goals by awarding them Raoul Teilhet Scholarships.
The CFT offers scholarships to high school seniors and continuing college students who are children or dependents of CFT members in good standing. Students enrolled in four-year courses of study are eligible for $3,000 scholarships; those enrolled in two-year programs are eligible for $1,000.
Applications are now open for high school seniors. More information is available here.
Public health experts recommend getting your COVID-19 booster and flu shots
Public health experts are encouraging all eligible adults and children to get their COVID-19 booster and flu shots. If you haven’t gotten your shots yet contact your health provider, or go to MyTurn.ca.gov to book an appointment or find a walk-in clinic.