A coalition of California Teachers Association (CTA) chapters recently united to advocate for better pay, smaller classes, and more resources for students across 32 school districts, ranging from San Diego to Sacramento. This movement, known as the “We Can’t Wait” campaign, aims to leverage the collective power of 77,000 teachers employed in these districts to demand fully staffed schools, competitive wages, and safe, stable learning environments.
Unprecedented Collaboration for Change
The CTA President, David Goldberg, emphasized the historic nature of this campaign during a recent webinar. He highlighted the unity among the chapters in pushing for essential changes that have never been achieved at this scale before. The primary objectives of the campaign include advocating for competitive wages and benefits to attract and retain quality educators, ensuring safe learning environments where every child can flourish, and addressing the pressing need for smaller class sizes.
This collaboration brings together educators from some of the largest school districts in the state, including Los Angeles Unified, San Diego Unified, San Francisco Unified, Oakland Unified, and Sacramento Unified. The involvement of these major districts underscores the significance of this movement and its potential impact on the educational landscape of California.
Implications and Challenges Ahead
While this unified effort is a significant step forward, challenges lie ahead as union chapters in 10 of the largest districts gear up for contract negotiations expiring on June 30. The simultaneous bargaining processes across different districts could lead to potential impasses or strikes if agreements are not reached. Despite the restrictions on bargaining across districts, the multiyear campaign allows for mutual support among the chapters, facilitating a coordinated push for change.
At a recent rally in Oakland, the passion and urgency of the campaign were palpable as more than 100 educators braved the pouring rain to chant “We Can’t Wait.” Students, teachers, and politicians alike spoke out about the critical need for adequately staffed schools, improved pay for educators, and increased resources for students. The emotional testimonies of individuals like Skyline High School student Ra’Maur Cash underscored the real-world impact of understaffing and the importance of investing in education.
The financial constraints faced by some school districts, such as Oakland Unified, raise questions about the feasibility of meeting the demands put forth by the campaign. Despite looming budget deficits and considerations of mergers, layoffs, or closures, proponents like Oakland Education Association President Kampala Taiz-Rancifer emphasize the necessity of prioritizing education funding. The sentiment is echoed by parent and executive director of Parent Voices Oakland, Clarissa Doutherd, who stresses the vital role of adequate resources in ensuring stability and continuity for students.
The current landscape of California’s education system reflects a complex interplay of financial challenges, staffing shortages, and the overarching need for sustained investment in public schools. As the CTA campaign gains momentum and draws attention to these critical issues, the collective voice of educators, students, and advocates offers a powerful call to action for policymakers and stakeholders to prioritize the future of California’s education system. Together, they strive to secure a brighter, more equitable future for every child in the state.
This is the story of collaboration, resilience, and determination as educators come together to champion the cause of quality education for all. The journey ahead may be fraught with obstacles, but the unwavering commitment of those involved in the “We Can’t Wait” campaign signals a profound belief in the transformative power of education. As the movement gains traction and garners support, the hope for a better future for California’s students shines brightly on the horizon.
