Educators play a vital role in fostering a safe and respectful environment for our students. In light of this responsibility, it is crucial to approach situations involving physical altercations among students with caution and consistency. In the following guidelines, aligned with California law, you will find important information and practical advice designed to support you in effectively managing these challenging situations while safeguarding the rights and well-being of all students involved. Remember, our goal is to promote a positive learning atmosphere, and these guidelines will serve as a valuable resource in navigating these incidents. Please take a look at this information carefully, and remember that ATA is here to support you every step of the way.

Please note that this message is a general guide, not legal advice.

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS- How to React to Physical Altercations Between Students 2-20-25

Liz Pinkava

EPinkava@cta.org

The ATA Board of Directors is pleased to announce that Javier Gutierrez, a teacher and department chair at Alhambra High School, as well as the ATA PAC Chair, has been awarded the prestigious WHO Award (We Honor Ours). He will be recognized at the upcoming CTA Southeastern Service Center Council WHO Banquet on April 23, 2025. Please save the date!

More information will be provided soon in an upcoming flyer.

On Tuesday, February 18th, we saw an incredible show of unity! The crowd in ATA Blue was impressive. Thank you to everyone who joined us. Your commitment is inspiring. Let’s keep this energy going as we prepare for our next steps. Together, we are fighting for a fair contract for everyone. Our strength lies in standing together!

Did you know that California Education Code 56046(a) protects educators and school staff from intimidation or coercion when advocating for students with special needs?

No district employee—whether directly or indirectly—may use their position to intimidate, threaten, or coerce any individual, including teachers, related service providers, paraprofessionals, aides, contractors, or subordinates, for assisting a parent or guardian in securing services or accommodations for a special education student.

Advocating for students is not just the right thing to do—it’s protected by law. If you ever feel pressured to stay silent or discouraged from supporting a family in accessing appropriate services, know that you have legal protections.

Have questions or concerns? Reach out to ATA—we’re here to support you.

The 2025 NEA-RA Delegate Election is underway, and all dues-paying members should have received a ballot this week from CTA titled "2025 NEA-RA Delegate Election."

As a valued member, I encourage you to exercise your right to vote in the election. The ATA has two (2) candidates from our association on the ballot, and I highly recommend supporting them. Your vote can make a significant impact and help save ATA money. The ATA members on the ballot are:

Alana Acosta-Martin

Ralph Hernandez

If you did not receive the ballot, please do not hesitate to contact ATA. We will be happy to assist you in any way we can.

Thank you for taking the time to vote.

The CTA Death and Dismemberment (D&D) Plan is an automatic benefit available to eligible CTA members at no additional cost. If an eligible CTA member dies or suffers a dismemberment (i.e., suffers a loss of limb or other qualifying injury), member or her/his beneficiary(ies) will receive a lump-sum cash payment.

• Provided by the CTA Economic Benefits Trust
• A Death Benefit of $2,000
• An Accidental Death and Accidental Dismemberment Benefit of $10,000
• A $50,000 Benefit if the member dies or suffers a dismemberment due to an accident or assault while engaged in any activity which was in the expressed or implied terms of his or her occupation, or while acting in the capacity of an Association Leader

Although no enrollment is required for eligible members to receive coverage under the CTA D&D Plan, eligible CTA members should designate (a) beneficiary(ies). If there is no named beneficiary(ies) or the beneficiary(ies) dies before the member, benefits will be paid in the following preference order:

• Spouse/Domestic Partner*
• Children
• Parents
• Brothers and sisters
• Executor or administrator

Click below for a step-by-step guide on how to register your beneficiary(ies).

February 25

- Board of Education (6 pm, Marengo West)

March 10

- Grievance (4:00 pm, ATA Office)

March 11

- ATA Board of Directors (4:00 pm, ATA Office)

- Board of Education (6 pm, Marengo West)

March 18

- ATA Rep Council (4:00 pm, ATA Office)

April 7

- Grievance (4:00 pm, ATA Office)

April 8

- ATA Board of Directors (4:00 pm, ATA Office)

- Board of Education (6 pm, Marengo West)

April 22

- ATA Rep Council (4:00 pm, ATA Office)

April 29

- Board of Education (6 pm, Marengo West)

May 12

- Grievance (4:00 pm, ATA Office)

May 13

- Joint BOD and Rep Council (4:00 pm, ATA Office)

May 20

- Board of Education (6 pm, Marengo West)

The Alhambra Teachers Association (ATA) exists to protect and promote the well-being of its members; to improve the conditions of teaching and learning; to advance the cause of free, universal, and quality public education; to ensure that the human dignity and civil rights of all children and youth are protected; and to secure a more just equitable and democratic society.

Email: ataoffice3030@gmail.com
Website: www.alhambrateachers.org
Location: 3030 West Main Street, Alhambra, CA, USA
Phone: (626)289-1933
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlhambraTeachersAssociation/