President's message
CSEA siblings,
This is always the time of year that seems to fly by.
It feels like just yesterday we were welcoming in the new year and already, it’s March and the CSEA calendar is in full swing.
On top of trainings galore up and down the state and Organizing Institute here at HQ, March is Paraeducator Conference month.
When I think about what makes CSEA stand out, I often come back to Paraeducator Conference.
Not only is it the largest conference in the country specifically designed for paraeducators, but the opportunity to gather in one place is only made possible because of CSEA.
We never stop planning for more at CSEA and though Paraconference will soon pass on the calendar, preparations for our Annual Conference July 27–August 1 are well underway.
We’re so thrilled to present this year’s conference theme: Together We Thrive. Just as a kaleidoscope will present a different view each time you see it, every member is different. Our diversity is our strength and like a kaleidoscope, we are ever changing. Through that change, we remain united and stronger together.
Each of our core values - Empowerment, Inclusivity, Respect, Transparency and Innovation - are represented by the five shields in the kaleidoscope.
This is who we are and we’re excited to bring this theme to life at Annual Conference.
While we are always united in spirit, we are spread out across one of the largest states in the country. There is power in our ability to gather in person, and this has always been one of my favorite parts of being a CSEA sibling.
We share the bond from being classified employees no matter the miles between us, but I never take for granted any chance to gather.
It’s all a part of the personal connection we have as a part of CSEA and what makes our union so special. We look out for each other, and in this issue you’ll read about the results of February’s Have-a-Heart Month, when we fundraise for the Humanitarian Assistance Fund to help each other when we need a helping hand.
In this issue, you’ll also learn about CSEA’s agenda for the 2024 legislative session in Sacramento. Learn in detail about the bills we are sponsoring as we fight to gain even more ground for classified employees.
This is such an exciting time for our union. I can’t wait to see those of you attending Paraeducator Conference and look forward to what the coming months have in store.
In Solidarity,
Adam Weinberger, Association President
