Professional Learning
As a union member, you have access to a variety of opportunities to help you grow as an educator. See a variety of professional learning opportunities for SDEA members below.
SDEA Members have access to opportunities through the California Teachers Association, our statewide affiliate. These include both in person conferences and virtual trainings, with the opportunity to earn university credits for salary advancement. CTA offers Incentive Grants for some conferences, including BIPOC Grants, Small Chapter Incentive Grants, and New Member Grants.
Check out our Know Your Rights flyer on Salary Advancement to see how credits can help you advance your salary!
CTA Links:
- All CTA Conference information
- 2025-26 University Credit: Get university credit paid for by CTA, to apply for salary advancement
- CTA Grants
- CTA Calendar
- CTA 2025 Virtual Pass – Access free virtual trainings!
Seeking National Board Certification?
You have resources available through your membership in our State and National affiliates, whether you’re just starting the process or renewing!
Upcoming CTA Conferences with grants available:
The following CTA conferences have Incentive Grants available to attend, including BIPOC Grants and New Member Grants! See grant information and application instructions here, and CTA Conference information here!
- Issues Conference
Conference Date: January 16-18, 2026
Location: Planet Hollywood, Las Vegas, NV
Application Deadline: November 10, 2025
- Good Teaching Conference – North
Conference Date: January 30 – February 1, 2026
Location: Hyatt SFO, Burlingame, CA
Application Deadline: November 10, 2025
- Good Teaching Conference – South
Conference Date: March 20-22, 2026
Location: Hyatt OC, Garden Grove, CA
Application Deadline: January 5, 2026
- Equity & Human Rights Conference
Conference Date: March 13-15, 2026
Location: Hilton OC, Costa Mesa, CA
Application Deadline: January 5, 2026
- Women’s Leadership Conference – NEW conference!
Conference Date: April 10-12, 2026
Location: Marriott Hotel – Gas Lamp District, San Diego, CA
Application Deadline: January 5, 2026
Our National affiliate is the National Education Association, which provides further resources: