Back to menu | Back to Archives | Current Issue

 

By Shauna Aragon - CTA State Council Representative - West Valley Community College

Last night I watched an amazing movie called "The Power of One" (1992 Warner Studios). It is about a young man's childhood growing up in South Africa and the decisions (to teach) he makes after he realizes that one person can make all the difference in the world. One scene is depicted in front of a huge waterfall; here he realizes that even the largest waterfall starts with a single drop of water. This movie reminds me of how important just one individual can be, and how important it is to take action.

Now is the time to stand up, pay attention, and take action! Now is the time to make a difference in your community. Now is the time to research the upcoming candidates, issues, and bond measures. Now is the time to campaign for "Pro-Education" candidates, support bond measures that will help public schools and end social injustices. One person can make a difference - YOU can make a difference.

Here is a list of things we can do today:

1. Register to Vote - If you are not registered, do it now online at http://www.ss.ca.gov/elections/elections_vr.htm
2. Help local Service Center Councils elect "Pro-Education" candidates. Locate your Service Center Council now and call today to volunteer your services.
3. Know what is happening in your area. Use this web page to see what is happening in your zip code. http://www.smartvoter.org/
4. Create voter curriculum for your classroom.

Our chapter wants to challenge all other SCTA chapters to "GET YOUR VOTE ON!"

Partner with our chapter and set a goal for 100% registration and 100% voting this next election. We also encourage you to participate in the "Take 5" program, hand out registration forms at all your meetings, and show members how to sign-up for an absentee ballot (So there is no excuse to miss voting). Together we can make a difference!

West Valley Community College SCTA Chapter is located in the Silicon Valley near San Jose. Chapter members can go to night meetings, day meetings or keep active through the web page: www.westvalley.edu/wvc/child/scta. Any future teacher is invited to attend meetings and/or activities. Upcoming meeting topics are: Advocacy, write a teacher resume in the tech lab, teacher portfolios, first year teacher panel, and a credential panel.