summer_18

MOBILIZING

SUMMER 2018 CEA ADVISOR 3

CEA VOWS TO CONTINUE FIGHT FOR CLASSROOM SAFETY, RESOURCES FOR AT-RISK STUDENTS Governor’s veto of student, teacher protections will not go unchallenged

At the last minute, legislators fell short of gathering enough support to override Governor Malloy’s veto of an important classroom safety bill. In failing to overturn the veto, they failed to protect students and teachers— and lost the best chance Connecticut has had to increase classroom safety and reduce discriminatory discipline for students of color and special education students. Public Act 18-89, An Act Concerning Classroom Safety and Disruptive Behavior, would have helped ensure a safe classroom environment for all students and educators by requiring that students who physically injure others receive appropriate counseling and services. The creation of the bill was a collaborative effort, with input from a variety of education stakeholders, including legislators, the State’s Child Advocate, mental health advocates, the executive director of the Commission on Equity and Opportunity, and the Commissioner of Education. During the legislative session, the bill passed with overwhelming bipartisan support in both the Senate and the House. Lawmakers heard from hundreds of experienced teachers explaining how this bill would help them and their students and avoid discriminatory discipline or a pattern of ignoring at-risk students, which occurs too often at present. Teachers called, emailed, and

first time on July 19 to work on a classroom safety law that will pass the legislature. “CEA will continue to push for accountability from administrators and for much-needed resources and supports for our at-risk students,” said Leake.

testified in person, and legislators listened. Then came the governor’s veto. Major setback The governor vetoed PA 18-89 in response to false information provided by the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents (CAPSS). CAPSS objected to the bill’s call for greater accountability and reporting on the part of school administrators. “It is truly disheartening that legislators and the governor denied protections for students and teachers and proactive supports to help students who cause physical injury to others,” said CEA Executive Director Donald Williams. “We are disappointed that legislators, who passed this bill with overwhelming bipartisan support, failed to override the governor’s veto and enact this bill into law.” He added, “Administrators must have greater accountability for reducing violence in the schools and for providing appropriate help for students in need. Responsible administrators should welcome the proactive and supportive approach of PA 18-89 rather than the current system of relying on expulsions and suspensions, or worse still, ignoring the needs of students who would otherwise face discriminatory discipline.” “Legislators failed to take a real step forward to protect students and teachers in Connecticut’s public

school classrooms,” said CEA President Jeff Leake. “Teachers want real solutions, not phony ‘feel-good’ ideas that accomplish nothing and do not really protect students.” The push continues Fortunately, CEA’s persistence on the issue has prompted the creation of a task force, which met for the

CEA Issues Report Cards for Legislators With election season around the corner, it is important to know which incumbents voted with teachers, who went against us, and which new candidates are promising for public education. • Who decided to plug the state’s budget deficit with a payroll tax on teachers? • Who voted to roll back the teacher tax? • Who upheld the standards for teacher certification that you worked so hard to achieve? Who is willing to fast-track certification for less-qualified candidates? CEA is introducing a report card and honor roll system that evaluates legislative candidates’ voting records on issues that matter to you. Just in time for the 2018 election this fall, you’ll see who’s a true ally in the fight for quality public education and whose campaign promises fell short. All Constitutional offices and all 187 Connecticut General Assembly seats will be in play this Election Day, as will five

Congressional House seats and one Congressional Senate seat. It’s important to fill those seats with representatives and officials who will look out for you and your students. Look for details about CEA’s report card in your inbox. Not receiving our emails? Let us know. Call 860-525-5641 or email cheryly@cea.org .

WHY CEA?

“Get involved, check out the opportunities available to you, and spread the word! CEA offers discounts on many things I use regularly, legal protection if and when you need it, support for new teachers, and workshops on teacher retirement.” Beth Hosmer, Southington

We asked members why they think it’s important to belong to CEA and what they want new teachers to know about the value of CEA membership. Here’s what some of them had to say.

“People fought hard for the rights we have now, and we’ll need to continue to fight to keep those rights. It’s strength in numbers. CEA is for the students, not just teachers.” Amy Broad, Bridgeport

“Support whenever you need it.” Jonathan Harder, Cromwell

“I am a member to be a voice for teachers and an advocate for students.” Larry Zankel, Fairfield

“United we stand. Keep unions strong!” Teresa

“They are strong and there for you.” Greg DeNies, Manchester

“CEA is our voice and our strength.” Vidi Gupta, Bridgeport

Mamunes, Mansfield

“Unity is power.” Olga Dominicci, Bridgeport

“It’s the only organization that works for educational progress from childhood through retirement. We continue to work the legislature to improve conditions year after year.” Jeanine Coleman, Retired, Sterling

“Having an advocate sitting at the table is my reason for belonging to CEA, 100 percent.” Tiffany Ladson-Lang, Bridgeport

“We are stronger together, and organization is key to success. There will always be someone to help you.” Cindy Rohr, Redding