Masks in schools now a local decision
On Monday Governor Gavin Newsom and the California Department of Public Health announced updated guidance on masking in K-12 schools, lifting mandatory masking and transitioning to strongly recommending masking after March 11, 2022.
The decision on whether to require masks in schools now goes to local public health agencies and local school districts.
CFT President Jeff Freitas released a statement in which he appreciated the CDPH for taking a science-based approach to the masking guidance. He also urged districts and public health experts to consult with educators, school workers, and parents when making the decision on masking in schools.
“The two week time period for transitioning to the new policy will give local school districts and local public health agencies time to review local conditions and, in consultation with parents and educators, make the decision about when and where masking is appropriate in their schools,” said Jeff Freitas.
“Any decision on masking at the local level should be made with an equity lens so that the health and safety of our hardest hit communities, and especially our most vulnerable students, are prioritized,” continued Freitas. “Districts must continue to provide high quality masks and ensure a safe environment for all staff and students who want or need to continue to wear them.”
CFT celebrates Women’s History Month
Women’s History Month provides us an opportunity to remind ourselves of women’s contributions to our culture and society and reflect on women who have fought for change in labor, education, science, the arts, and politics. We acknowledge the major roles that women have played in the educational world, including unions. In fact, it was women who formed the first teacher unions and demanded that educators be compensated fairly.
As we celebrate Women’s History Month, check out CFT’s curated collection of resources for your classroom and inspiration for your union, home, and beyond.
AFT report a timely reminder of why the CFT part-time faculty campaign is so critical
A new national adjunct faculty survey from the American Federation of Teachers underlines the brutal economic reality faced by millions of part-time and adjunct faculty at the nation’s colleges and universities—providing a timely reminder of why the CFT part-time faculty campaign is more important than ever.
The updated “Army of Temps: AFT Adjunct Faculty Quality of Work/Life Report” found that nearly four in ten adjunct faculty in the U.S. need government assistance to get by, with a quarter earning an annual salary below the federal poverty line. Nearly half struggle with extreme job insecurity. And just 20% say that they can comfortably cover basic monthly expenses.
The CFT part-time faculty campaign is in full swing. Take a moment to go to the campaign web page to see how you can get involved.
Part-time faculty at University San Francisco rally for a new contract
This week dozens of University of San Francisco part-time faculty, students, and community supporters took part in a spirited rally and march to urge the administration to settle a contract that recognizes the important contribution of part-time faculty to the university.
Members of the USF Part-Time Faculty Association, AFT local 6590, are fighting for a fair wage increase, more support for healthcare benefits, and to protect seniority rights.
After a rally in front of the university library, demonstrators marched to the building housing the president’s and provost’s offices, carrying a symbolic table and placards bearing the union’s key demands. “If they won’t come to the table,” organizers said, “we’ll bring the table to them.”
Want to support USF part-time faculty? Take a moment to sign a letter urging the USF administration to settle a fair contract.
