August 15, 2025

​Greeting SDCAE Members!
​
It’s been a busy and productive summer for SDCAE!
In early July, I had the opportunity to attend the CTA Summer Institute, where I participated in the Economic Justice strand. The experience was both humbling and energizing, deepening my understanding of the systemic challenges many of our most vulnerable students face, the history of those systems, and why our work matters so deeply. I plan to share my learning and replicate many of the activities I participated in throughout the year with our SDCAE leadership. 
In late July,  Phil and I attended the  CTA’s Presidents’ Conference, where we connected with leaders from across the state.  We were able to exchange ideas for addressing the common challenges we face, and many of the conference sessions aligned closely with the work we’re doing here at SDCOE, particularly in the areas of school safety and special education.
We also had the honor of hosting CTA President David Goldberg for a visit to East Mesa and Friendship School.  His visit will strengthen statewide advocacy efforts as it provided a deeper understanding of our individual program needs, our association needs, and the supports that will most benefit our students and our members. 
Our Executive Council Retreat took place in early August. We finalized our goals for the year, set our calendar, reviewed our budget, and took time to connect as a leadership team ensuring we move forward with unity and purpose.
We met with Special Education leadership to clarify how the state education code applies to safety practices for students with disabilities. This meeting helped resolve some misunderstandings and laid the groundwork for important next steps. Our goal is to provide clarity around policies and practices so that unit members know what outcomes to expect, what communication they should receive, and how to provide a safe environment for all.
Earlier this week, we met with the SDCOE Chief of Staff and the Assistant Superintendents of School Programs to discuss how we will accurately evaluate the culture and climate within the various SDCOE  programs and departments. We’ve committed to using multiple measures and inclusive communication strategies to gather meaningful feedback and develop an action plan to improve the overall culture of SDCOE. 
We’ve recently been assigned a new primary contact staff (PCS), Carin Polk, from CTA, who will be supporting us at the bargaining table as well as with our general business. Phil and I, along with our bargaining co-chairs, Kim and Kimberly, met with Carin to connect and educate her on the current bargaining season, on the interests of our association, and on the uniqueness of the COE as it relates to our union. 
We have been in close contact with SDCOE legal as the investigation by the Attorney General has progressed. We have asked questions and conveyed information to CTA to get guidance, and will continue to do so until the conclusion of the investigation.  
We have collaborated with Migrant Ed and LLS Leadership to address the threats to funding by the federal government.   While we are relieved that the funds have been release for the 25-26 school year, we know the fight is far from over. SDCOE leadership has committed to working with us to develop protects for the Migrant Ed program and community in collaboration with our members as we navigate the new and evolving challenges.
We’ll be returning to the bargaining table later this month.  Our proposals include language  for student and community protections, and on codifying the collaborative work already underway in many areas.
As we prepare for the school year ahead, please remember to take care of yourselves, to connect with one another, and to stay strong as we face unprecedented attacks on public education.  The strength of our partnerships and the clarity of our shared purpose will continue to guide our work. I’m proud of the progress we’re making—and grateful to be on this journey with all of you.

In Solidarity,
Steph Cruz

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