California School Employees Association (CSEA)

Association President Ben Valdepeña shares some of the many changes that are happening here in California and in Washington D.C. since the last Fridays with Ben video update. Hear all about how we’re busy serving our members by advocating at the Legislature in Sacramento, defending your rights in legal cases, preparing for symposiums and events, and so much more.

Since 1991, Union Plus has awarded over $4 million to more than 3,000 union members, spouses, and dependents. Awards ranging from $500 to $4,000 are given to students attending a two-year college, four-year college, graduate school, or recognized technical or trade school. This past year CSEA had 13 out of 215 winners nationwide, with one student receiving $3,000 to continue his education. Apply online at www.unionplus.org/scholarships. Applications are due January 31, 2021.

California needs an Attorney General who will continue our state's legacy of protecting our residents and challenging federal action when appropriate. That is why the CSEA Board, on behalf of our quarter million members, encourages California Governor Gavin Newsom to select Assemblymember Rob Bonta to be California’s next Attorney General. Asm. Bonta stands out among the crowd as a defender of the defenseless, a fighter for fair dealing, a guardian of justice, and as a caretaker of the California Dream.

In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, tomorrow CSEA offices will be closed. Take a moment to reflect on his longstanding impacts in the world of labor and our society, as well as what still must be done to achieve his vision.

We are less than two month's away from this year's first ever virtual Paraeducator Conference, being held March 3-5! Don't miss out and sign up for this highly regarded event that has great insights to share, no matter what your position. To register or for more information, visit www.csea.com/paraconference.

Red flag conditions continue to raise concerns about the potential to spike even more fires throughout the state. Are you among the thousands of members who have had to flee your home or suffered loss? Apply for support today at www.csea.com/assistance. This fund relies solely on donations and anyone can donate at the same link.

Being a part of CSEA means you have a second family, there to support you through life. This week, Association President Ben Valdepeña shares upcoming events and benefits exclusive to our members.

Today continues National School Bus Safety Week through October 23, an active program to keep parents, students, teachers, motorists, school bus operators, school administrators and engaged and informed about the important work our bus drivers provide. For more information, visit www.napt.org/nsbsw.

We are less than two weeks away from this year's general election! Don't leave your future in the hands of others. Take an active part and vote today, if you haven't already. For more information about early voting and legitimate official dropbox locations, visit https://caearlyvoting.sos.ca.gov/

Not only does CSEA support our members as active classified employees, but we also have a very active Retiree Unit. Newly appointed chairperson Martha Penry has launched a new monthly video series titled "I'm Still In!" to keep our more than 11,500 retirees across 51 councils informed. Watch the first video now below.

Many schools may currently be teaching students remotely, but most of our school bus drivers are still on the road each day to provide meals and school supplies to those in need. That is why it is important we recognize National School Bus Safety Week today through October 23. The theme this year is "Red Lights Mean STOP!". For more information, visit www.napt.org/nsbsw

Today is the last day to register to vote in this year's critical election! Sign up now at https://registertovote.ca.gov/ to make sure your voice is heard and counted.

The coronavirus has undoubtedly changed the world in which we operate but CSEA is using the circumstances to connect with our members in other ways! This week, Association President Ben Valdepeña talks about the upcoming Board Meeting and Paraeducator Conference, both being held virtually, and the importance of casting your vote in this year’s critical election.

Today is THE LAST DAY to complete the 2020 U.S. Census, an easy opportunity to make a positive impact on your community for the next decade. An estimated $1.5 trillion a year in federal tax dollars for critical services including health care, education and other public services depend on the reported information. Complete the questionnaire at https://my2020census.gov/ No longer have your Census ID? No problem! The website will walk you through the process of completing the questionnaire. Census information is confidential and protected by lawit cannot be shared with law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, ICE, or even local police.

Tomorrow is the LAST day to complete the 2020 U.S. Census! Take just a few minutes to complete the questionnaire at https://my2020census.gov/ to ensure fair federal funding of critical services in your community - like schools - for the next 10 years. No longer have your Census ID? No problem! The website will walk you through the process of completing the questionnaire. Census information is confidential and protected by lawit cannot be shared with law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, ICE, or even local police.

This is one of the most critical elections of our lifetimes so be sure to VOTE TODAY using your Vote by Mail Ballot, which you should have received last week. For more information about CSEA-endorsed candidates, visit www.csea.com/voterguide. Not registered to vote? You still have time to do so at http://registertovote.ca.gov/

Once again, the Census may be closing earlier than expected so now is the time to fill it out at https://my2020census.gov/! Don't let your community and your schools lose out on critical federal funding for the next decade. It's quick, it's easy and it's confidential. No longer have your Census ID? No problem! The website will walk you through the process of completing the questionnaire. Census information is confidential and protected by lawit cannot be shared with law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, ICE, or even local police.

The Fall 2020 issue of Retiree newsletter is out now! Read the magazine to get all the latest information, including critical election information and the launch of RUEB Chairperson Martha Penry's newest video series "I'm Still In!" Visit our website at www.csea.com to view it today.

It is impossible to not be directly or indirectly affected by the wildfires that are continuing across the state of California. If you are experiencing home loss or need assistance, please contact our Member Benefits department at (866) 487-2732, [email protected] or www.csea.com/assistance. If you are fortunate to remain safe but recognize the great need of your fellow brothers and sisters, donate at the same link.