I hope everyone had a wonderful summer. We all needed to recharge our batteries, because we have so much to do. Certainly, our students are at the top of our minds as we return to the classroom. If you are new to our CEA and CCS families, get ready for a running start. This year, we continue to focus on protecting our rights—and not just in Columbus.

We have been dealing with some very important Ohio issues during the past few years, and thanks to our membership, we have successfully maintained our position. We defeated SB 5, which threatened to take away our rights. Then we got to work opposing HB 194, which would have suppressed everyone’s voting power. Meanwhile, we made our voices heard against HB 153, which cut funding for public schools.

Now we are supporting a yes vote on Issue 2, the Voters First state constitutional amendment, which provides public input to the drawing of congressional districts. Keep reading this Voice for more information.

I know it’s easy to push all of this aside and concentrate on the world inside your classroom. But consider this: Without the hard-won rights your Association has worked for, your daily working life would be drastically different. The Association plays a significant role in ensuring you can do your job in the most effective environment. This is a volatile time for us. Teachers unions are under attack. We are blamed for the problems of our school districts. In this election year, issues such charter schools and tenure reform ceaselessly surface across the nation, and the public is increasingly agreeing that unions need their wings clipped.

Fortunately, Ohio residents are strong union supporters. But we take nothing for granted, and that’s why we need you. You are key to responding to these challenges and shaping our profession for years to come. Many before you paved the way. Read your contract. None of those provisions came without a fight. Read your Voice. Watch for opportunities to get involved. If you have questions, we are here to help and to guide you.

Yours in solidarity,

Rhonda Johnson, President