Preview of Upcoming Events
by Jim Groth, CTA Director, District P, Chula Vista Elementary School District

2008 is just around the corner. The exciting side of 2008 is that it is the year our country elects a new president. The other side of 2008 is that it is the "Year of Education" as proclaimed by our governor.

Here is what is waiting just around the corner:

In January, Governor Schwarzeneggar will unveil his initial budget for the 08/09 fiscal year. The California economy is not doing well with early estimates predicting a 10 billion dollar deficit. The protection of Proposition 98 will be the priority of all of CTA.

In the California "Year of Education", anticipate a new series of education reforms. Early drafts of the governor's reform document include fiscal reform that may be helpful for everyone. However, the early drafts also contain unacceptable merit pay provisions based on test scores.

At the January CTA State Council, the discussion will continue on Article 2 of the Education Workgroup document. Article 2 considers different forms of teacher compensation. Through delegate action, this article was postponed for action until the January meeting. Action may also be considered to endorse or not endorse a CTA recommended presidential candidate. The endorsement process will include a thorough questioning of all candidates about No Child Left Behind (NCLB).

January will also be the month of renewed discussion on NCLB in Washington DC. At this time, the actual timeline for action on NCLB is not known. However, CTA will be diligent in following this extremely important bill.

February will bring the first of three elections. The California primary will take place February 5th. Along with voting on presidential candidates, several propositions will also be on the ballot. CTA has a recommended position against Proposition 92- the Community College Initiative. CTA opposes Proposition 92 due to concerns that it may take money from Proposition 98 funding and that this proposition does not properly address the funding of community colleges. June will be the second of three elections. The election June 3rd will be the California primary on state legislative offices along with several anticipated propositions. This election will also be the primary election for two seats on the San Diego Unified District Board of Trustees.

November will bring the last of the three elections. The US
presidential election will be the opportunity to move our country
forward. This election may also be the defining moment for a
rewritten NCLB. The San Diego Unified Board of Trustee election will
be of great importance for all of SDEA.

Hold on to your hats-here comes 2008.

Have a good and restful holiday season!

(Jim can be contacted at Jgroth@cta.org or through the SDEA office.)