Dear CCUSD Board Members:
I am writing to you because I'm very concerned about the recent wave, and seemingly assault, on education, primarily teachers, through political rhetoric and social commentary throughout this country.
The assault on teachers, unions, and the attempt to strip them of collective bargaining rights in Ohio, Wisconsin and several other states is unprecedented, demoralizing and unsettling.
Although my issue with the School Board is not of this nature, I feel that as citizens of Culver City, we need to recognize that the attack on the teaching profession comes in many different forms. I believe that the decision made by the Board to only include teachers on the “chopping block” is one of those attacks that fails to uphold the dignity, integrity and respect of this District's teachers.
Tough times calls for tough decisions. Most of us know that the impending cuts are going to be nasty and they will affect us all. However, the decision not to allow for more flexibility in the negotiations of the layoff notices, even as a formality, by March 15, not only slams the door on teachers’ faces, but it sends a message to all of us that we are the least valued and most expendable.
If we, as teachers and as a community, are to bring dignity to the teaching profession, claim a stake of integrity to our roles in society, and raise the value of the men and women who serve our children, our community, our country, it begins in our own backyard.
Sharing the sacrifice is more than just a budgetary maneuver; it is a statement about how our community values us as teachers. We cannot allow any level of assault on our profession that diminishes our worth in any way. As Board members, you now have an opportunity to make your own statement about the value of teachers by allowing maximum flexibility in future negotiations; it is a sign of respect, it resonates appreciation for our profession, and it is the right thing to do.
I trust that you will make the right decision as you reconsider. Thank you.
Mr. Valverde, a CCUSD teacher, may be contacted at carlosvalverde@ccusd.org
