PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE 12/15/25
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE 12/15/25
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Dear CTA Members,
Wishing you and your loved ones a joyful and restful holiday season. Thank you for the incredible work you do every day for our students and for each other. I hope this break brings you the peace and renewal you deserve.
UNDER ENROLLED SCHOOLS
Tomorrow, December 16 at 1pm there is a School Board Work Session and one of the agenda items is under enrolled schools. For those who are out of school by the time this topic is discussed on the agenda (it is the last item listed) we encourage you to attend or watch it virtually on Youtube HERE. It is important that the School Board see our membership engaged in this conversation. The discussion affects the seven schools being discussed for closure but also all the nearby schools potentially impacted by a rezoning of all these students. There are also many schools with similar underenrolled situations. The discussion is not likely to end with these schools. Beyond attending this work session, we encourage everyone to email their school board members, to stay engaged in the legislative session and email lawmakers as they potentially discuss changes to how Schools of Hope can essentially take over our neighborhood public schools.
CTA PUBLIC EDUCATION ROUNDTABLE
This past Saturday we hosted an excellent discussion on public education with several of our local elected officials and community leaders. A central theme that emerged was the importance of citizen engagement—both collective and individual—in influencing the policies that shape our daily work. Decisions made in Tallahassee have real impacts on our classrooms, and we can't allow the only voices heard to be those whose priorities don’t align with what’s best for our students and teachers.
The legislative session begins January 13, and the decisions made there will directly affect our work and our classrooms. The Governor’s proposed budget offers little relief, an increase of $201 million amounts to roughly $985 per teacher, or just $19 a week before taxes. We encourage members to join FEA and educators from across the state online for POWER HOUR, where you can hear legislative updates throughout the session and take action that can make a real difference. Sign up HERE.Your voice truly matters.
WE'RE HERE FOR YOU
You are the force behind CTA. Your voice, your action, and your solidarity are what give our union real power to create change. And if you need support along the way, your CTA team is here to back you up. Contact us anytime at 407-298-0756 or orangecta@gmail.com.
In Solidarity,
Clinton McCracken, Orange CTA President
“I always wondered why somebody didn’t do something about that. Then I realized I was somebody.”
Lily Tomlin
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
BARGAINING UPDATE
BARGAINING UPDATE
LOOKING AHEAD - BARGAINING FOR 2026-2027 BEGINS:
The bargaining process for the 2026–2027 school year is beginning, and your involvement is more important than ever. CTA keeps a bargaining suggestion form open year-round so members can share ideas about improving our contract. While salary and benefits are negotiated every year and remain top priorities, this form also helps us gather input on other needed contractual improvements. The deadline to submit suggestions for the 2026–2027 negotiations is December 20. After the form closes, the Bargaining Committee and Bargaining Team will work together to review and sort through all submissions, and then a member survey will be sent out so educators can prioritize the proposed contract ideas. Suggestions submitted after December 20 will be considered for the 2027–2028 cycle.
Click HERE to submit a bargaining suggestion. The deadline for suggestions to be included in the 2026-2027 bargaining is this Saturday, December 20th.
Smart, strategic, and united action is making a difference. Over the past three years together we have achieved about 16% raises for teachers rated Highly Effective, but there is more work to be done. We will meet every challenge as always, united together.
JOIN OUR BARGAINING COMMITTEE: Want a voice in the process? We’re building a site-based Bargaining Committee! In this role, you can serve as the voice of your school, ensuring all educators have a direct line into the bargaining process. Bargaining Committee members help us relay information back to worksites, gather site input on proposals, and encourage participation among your peers. No experience necessary! The Bargaining Committee will be meeting on January 10 to go through items submitted through the Bargaining Suggestion Form. You can find an FAQ about this role HERE, and the sign-up link HERE.
LABOR MANAGEMENT UPDATES:
CTA President Clinton McCracken meets with District representatives monthly for a "Labor Management Committee" to advocate for members, seek clarity on topics and workplace issues. Below are updates on some of the topics discussed during these recent meetings. We continue to discuss other issues as well, and updates will be provided as they become available.
Common Final Exams (CFEs) Survey
The CFE survey closed on November 14, 2025. CTA sent the results to the district for analysis. The union will provide members with updates as soon as they are available. The School Board and District have shared their interest in eliminating CFEs and requested CTA’s input. In response, CTA committed to surveying teachers and sharing those results to ensure educators’ voices are heard.
Computer Programs - IXL / NearPod / Others
CTA raised concerns about removing instructional programs without teacher input. Teachers' feedback was shared with the district. It is essential that your voice is heard and that you are not constantly placed in a position of having to learn new programs without the opportunity to provide feedback. CTA is waiting for additional information from the district.
Progress Reports
The District reiterated that the progress report window cannot be expanded. CTA presented an MOU proposing adjusting the language to the Wednesday when progress reports are due.
Skyward - Middle School Attendance / Discipline Referrals
CTA requested that the timeline for submitting 7th-period attendance in middle schools be adjusted (15 minutes) to provide teachers with additional time. The district will verify the request's viability and respond. In addition, CTA is following up on concerns about the discipline referrals and not all personnel involved in the process being trained. CTA will send additional details to the district to get additional information.
Under Enrolled Schools
CTA has made it clear to the district that educators should not be left waiting until after decisions are made about potential school closures. Teachers deserve answers now. We’ve urged the district to work with us to establish a clear, transparent plan before any final decisions on potential closures or consolidations are reached. CTA is has presented an MOU that would ensure teacher's rights are protected. We are encouraging members from any of these schools to reach out to CTA with questions you have so that we can work to get you answers. We're also in the process of visiting each of these schools again so feel free to come talk with us to share your concerns.
Parental Leave
As you know, we secured three weeks of maternity leave, with a commitment to continue discussing a path toward full parental leave. At our most recent Labor Management meeting, CTA began discussions on implementing full parental leave. We are waiting for the district's response.
Other Items
Additional items being discussed include but are not limited to STO schools, School Cash, vendor list, Accountability Denominator Interactive Tool, School Board Policy GBED, Sustainability Champion Program, and Maintenance Request Pilot Program. A summary of the items is not provided because the parties are having discussions and there is no information or responses to report yet.
CONTRACT REMINDERS
CONTRACT REMINDERS
TESTING SCHEDULES: After the last round of testing in September, members took action to defend our contract. Several members contacted the CTA office sharing that they had to supervise students for more than three continuous hours and/or lost their daily planning time and were not provided an alternate plan. We then asked for information from all schools and filed a class action grievance for the schools we received information from. Although the district denied this grievance at step 3, and we are now continuing to pursue it to arbitration, they did send this memo to all school administrators stating that testing schedules must adhere to our contract. The grievance was denied based on administrative claims of compliance, while educators maintain the schools have not complied.
Some teachers have begun contacting us regarding the most recent testing as well. If your school testing schedule violates our contract language below, click HERE to fill out a form to give us information to be able to reach out and assist you. You may also reach out to us by email or phone if you prefer.
Above you will find the district memo sent November 20 to clarify to school admin that testing schedules MUST adhere to the CTA negotiated contract (click HERE to view the memo as a pdf). Teachers are entitled to daily uninterrupted planning time during testing. In addition, teachers should be provided a break after three hours of student supervision. “No teacher shall be assigned responsibility for students for more than three continuous hours." Article XIV. Duty Day. B.3.d. Page 55 - "Elementary teachers shall have an average daily planning time of 60 minutes, at least 45 of which shall be contiguous. Middle and high school teachers shall have a contiguous daily planning time equal to a student academic period or 50 minutes, whichever is less. The parties recognize that in some cases, contiguous planning time may need to be temporarily adjusted due to unanticipated circumstances. Post-secondary teachers shall have an average daily planning time of at least 50 minutes, at least 35 of which shall be contiguous." Article XIV. Duty Day. B.3.h. Page 55
SCHEDULED HOLIDAY - DECEMBER 19, 2025: Teachers may leave at the end of the student day on Friday, December 19, 2025. “On the day before a scheduled holiday, the employee duty day shall end at the close of the student day. Non-school based personnel may leave 30 minutes before the end of their regular day. If the day before the Winter and/or Spring Holiday period for school based teachers is a non-student contact day, it shall be 6.5 hours in length. ” Article XIV. Duty Day. G. Page 57
Have a contract concern? If you are a member, contact your CTA Specialist at 407-298-0756 or orangecta@gmail.com.
UPCOMING EVENTS
UPCOMING EVENTS
NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION ZOOM 12/18: We're excited to continue our new monthly Zoom series for our newest members! These sessions cover everything you need to know to get connected and empowered, including how to navigate our website, where to find your contract, who your AR is, ways we can support you, and ways you can help strengthen your union. Orientations will be held on the fourth Thursday of each month at 5pm except November and December, when they'll be the third Thursday. New members can RSVP HERE for our next session on 12/18. (Future sessions: 12/18, 1/22, 2/26, 3/26, 4/23)
EQUALITY FLORIDA QUARTERLY SERIES: Navigating Challenges & Building Support for LGBTQ in Florida Schools
Join CTA & Equality Florida for a workshop focused on supporting LGBTQ+ students and staff in Florida’s K–12 schools. Together, we will review practical classroom “do’s and don’ts” that create safe, affirming spaces for all students, and explore current trends and challenges impacting LGBTQ+ inclusion across our state. This session is designed to provide both guidance and a collaborative space where teachers, staff, and administrators can share insights, strengthen strategies, and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring every student and educator feels seen, respected, and supported. RSVP TODAY!
Dates: Feb 25 & May 13
Time: 5:00 pm
Location: CTA Office (1020 Webster Ave, Orlando, FL 32804)
FYRE HOLIDAY PARTY DEC. 17: Join us for a night of festive fun!
The Orange CTA FYRE Holiday Party is happening December 17th, 6–7 PM at The Reindeer Room. Expect food, drinks, prizes, and great company — all wrapped up in holiday cheer!
A bit about FYRE (Florida's Young Remarkable Educators): Founded by the Florida Education Association to engage and empower early-career educators, FYRE connects members to the union’s values of integrity, advocacy, respect and empowerment through training, collaboration and leadership opportunities. 808 East Washington Street, Orlando, FL 32801
RSVP at tinyurl.com/fyreholidayparty
ANNOUNCEMENTS
ANNOUNCEMENTS
CTA HOSTS COMMUNITY ROUNDTABLE BRUNCH: CTA hosted a roundtable discussion this past Saturday focused on public education and the impact of recent legislation on our schools, including teacher pay and the underfunding of public education, Schools of Hope, vouchers and under-enrolled schools, and more. The conversation was thoughtful and brought forward many valuable insights, but the most important outcome was the time spent identifying actions each of us can take to move these issues forward.
To take action on schools of hope, visit schoolsofnope.org, and we encourage members to stay informed and engage whenever possible. Together, our actions make a difference.
We're thankful to our many local elected officials, community leaders, faith leaders, and educators who came to participate in this important discussion.
HOWARD FENNER SCHOLARSHIP NOW OPEN: We are now accepting Howard Fenner Scholarship applications! Each year, we are thrilled to offer this scholarship to graduating high school seniors who are children of CTA members. A small portion of our members' dues is set aside to fund this scholarship. For those wishing to apply, please see the scholarship application HERE on our website.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR BENEFITS THIS HOLIDAY SEASON!:
FEA Member Benefits can help make the holiday season less stressful and less expensive! From hotel and car rental savings as you travel to the convenience of having your own personal assistant through Member Assist, the opportunities for saving time and money are endless. Check out the December FEA Member Benefits update to learn more.
Entries for the NEA Member Benefits Annual Giveaway close on December 22. Be sure to enter now for your chance to win a 4-night cruise plus $250 in vacation cash. Learn more about this giveaway and other NEA Member Benefits promotions here.
STUDENT LOAN WEBINAR:
The Student Loan Help Group (TSLHG) is planning a webinar on December 17th, 2025 at 5PM ET and again on January 13th , 2026 at 4PM ET to break everything down into eight clear sections, including educator-specific programs, upcoming changes in 2026, how to avoid common pitfalls, and actionable steps members can take. Included will also be a live Q&A session with the Student Loan Help Group (TSLHG) experts. Links for both webinars:
December 17th at 5 PM ET: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/qEhL_1XUQca7ssQhd9BfOA
January 13th at 4PM ET: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/jWu9DSgqQ96AyehJUIkt6w
STUDENT DEBT AND LOAN FORGIVENESS: Public Service Loan Forgiveness is a federal program for people who work full time in the public sector or for certain nonprofit organizations. It can lead to borrowers having their remaining federal student loan balance forgiven after 120 qualifying payments. Almost every AFT member is eligible for this program! Check aft.org/pslf for more information.
40-HOUR READING/ESE RECERTIFICATION COURSE FOR MEMBERS:
FEA PD is holding their first participant version of the 40-hour Reading/ESE Recertification Course starting January 2026. accepting 50 registrations are being accepted for this course from across the state. All others will be put on a waitlist so act now.
This 40-hour Reading/ESE course was created to fulfill the Florida statute requirement for renewal or reinstatement of a professional certificate under rule 6A-4.0051. Participants must hold a professional certificate to enroll in this course.
Click here to register for the course! Registration link contains more course information. The Board shall provide a record of in-service points earned for certificate extension to each teacher at least twice during each school year. A teacher may request in-service points for participation in training designed to enhance a teacher’s competency. If the training has not been previously approved, the teacher may submit a written request to the Talent Acquisition and Human Resources Compliance Department for approval. The record shall include approved in-service courses, and when feasible, in-service hours earned but not approved for credit.
LEGISLATIVE UPDATES
LEGISLATIVE UPDATES
FIRST DAY OF LEGISLATIVE SESSION: JANUARY 13
JOB STABILITY, FAIR PAY, AND DECREASED RELIANCE ON TEST SCORES:
When SB 320 passed its first committee on a unanimous vote last week, there was plenty of reason for educators to celebrate. This bill undoes many of the burdensome requirements that get in the way of teaching and learning. Among other things, SB 320
Creates a pathway for multi-year contracts to bring back stability to the teaching profession that was lost in 2011 when SB 736 eliminated multi-year contracts for new teachers.
Removes many of the regulations on how teachers are paid that have led to salary compression and limited raises for experienced educators. Along with this, the bill expands eligibility for pay for advanced degrees to ensure that those with advanced degrees are fairly compensated for their expertise.
Removes the Value-Added Model from being the sole determinant in teacher placement for schools in turnaround status.
The bill is not all good news, however. It also contains a provision that would weaken collective bargaining rights when it comes to salary supplements.
Last year, a nearly identical bill passed the Senate unanimously, but a companion bill in the House was never filed. We anticipate having good news to share soon about a House companion bill this year. Stay tuned!
POWER HOUR: Join FEA and other members from around the state online for legislative updates throughout the next legislative session. This is a way to keep informed of any potential legislation that could affect us in public education. Sign up for the next Power Hours
Jan 13, 2026 05:30 PM
Jan 20, 2026 05:30 PM
Jan 27, 2026 05:30 PM
Feb 3, 2026 05:30 PM
Feb 10, 2026 05:30 PM
Feb 17, 2026 05:30 PM
Feb 24, 2026 05:30 PM
Mar 3, 2026 05:30 PM
Mar 10, 2026 05:30 PM
Mar 17, 2026 05:30 PM
Watch committee meetings and other public meetings at The Florida Channel. Other links shared in previous Power Hours:
State Board of Education Rule on Schools of Hope (adopted 9/25/2025)
Our Kids attend Wilkinson Elementary in Sarasota. We'll fight hard to save it
Florida Inventory of School Houses (FISH) Report where you can see how much “vacant” space there is for each school in the state,
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT
BECOME A DELEGATE TO THE NEA AND/OR AFT!: An essential part of our union’s structure is our strong connection with both of our national affiliates — the National Education Association (NEA) and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT).
Each summer, the NEA holds its Representative Assembly (RA) in July, bringing together elected delegates from across the country to conduct the business of the union and help shape its national priorities. CTA elects its delegates for this important body every spring, and we cover a portion of the travel costs to support our delegates’ participation. This summer, the NEA RA will take place in Denver, Colorado, over the July 4th holiday.
In alternating years, the AFT hosts a similar gathering — the AFT Convention — where delegates engage in the same vital work of setting direction and policy. Elections for AFT Convention delegates are also held in the spring preceding that summer’s event. This summer the AFT Convention will be in Washington D.C. July 16-19.
We encourage all members to consider running to be a delegate. It’s a rewarding and educational opportunity to connect with fellow union members from across the country and to have a direct voice in shaping the direction of our national union.
FOOD DRIVE: Join CTA in supporting local families in need! We are collecting donations of non-perishable food, toiletries, and other essentials at our CTA office. Donations will be delivered weekly to local food pantries and other community organizations. If you’d like to donate, please stop by our office anytime Monday through Friday, from 8 am to 5 pm. Some ARs are also collecting donations at their worksites. We will be picking these up as needed. Donations will be accepted on an ongoing basis. We hope you will join us in our efforts to aid and uplift those in our community who need it most! Please share this with anyone who may be interested in donating!
INFO FOR NEW MEMBERS Did you help someone join CTA this month? Share the information in this graphic with them to ensure they have everything they need. We also email this to them, but we ask you to give them a heads up in case they overlook the email.
CTA COMMITTEES: Interested in becoming more involved with your union? We invite members to sign up for the committees listed below! This is a great way to connect, organize, and build solidarity with other members. Committees meet monthly on Zoom. Sign up HERE and we'll reach out with more information.
FYRE (Florida Young Remarkable Educators): FYRE continuously engages and empowers diverse teams of early career educators through training, collaboration, networking and opportunities to experience their union in action — giving a voice to new members with which to advocate for their students, their union and their profession.
Government Relations
Howard Fenner Scholarship
Marion Cannon Scholarship
Ulysses Floyd Scholarship
Human and Civil Rights
Minority Affairs
GRIEVANCES: We’re actively pursuing multiple contract violations around the district. Over the past 50 years, educators have fought hard to win a contract that protects our rights, and it’s our responsibility to defend it whenever those rights are ignored or violated. Members have stepped up to stand together. If you believe your contract is being violated, call us right away so we can answer your questions and discuss whether to pursue the situation.
NEW DIGITAL MEMBER GUIDE: We are excited to share your 2025-2026 Member Guide school year is now digital. Live links are embedded throughout the guide to help you access the information you need. Find information on Union Benefits, Calendar, Contract FAQs, Bargaining, Social Media Info, Ways to Get Involved, Association Rep Info, CTA Board Info, and more!
MEMBERS ONLY FACEBOOK GROUP: Remember that our members-only Facebook Group is the ONLY group affiliated with your Union. Be sure you are getting accurate information when asking questions online. We have seen inaccurate information in other places. Also, while anonymous posting is currently an option, remember that CTA staff are unable to fix any concerns when they’re posted in the group. For assistance from staff, you must email or call the office. We often see contract violations in comments but can’t file a grievance to resolve it if you don’t contact us directly. You can also file a class action grievance and remain anonymous, but again, that must be done by contacting the office.
CTA MEMBERSHIP GROWTH - STRENGTHENING YOUR UNION
CTA MEMBERSHIP GROWTH - STRENGTHENING YOUR UNION
CTA MEMBERSHIP DRIVE: All members will receive $35 for every new member that signs up and lists you as the recruiter when they join. All new members also receive $35 when they are fully connected for dues payments. Be on the lookout for an email from "Toasty" as the e-gift card does expire within 30 days.
SCHOOL VISITS/CONGRATULATIONS!: We are visiting several schools each week to check in and offer support, answer questions, and help sign up new members to strengthen our union at your worksite. We also have schools with a membership density above 80% and want to wish you a huge congratulations! This happens when members talk to colleagues about why they are members and encourage them to join with us in our fight for a better life. We'd also like to congratulate worksites that have reached 60% density! You can find these schools below.
Worksites Above 80% Density
AZALEA PARK ELEMENTARY
CONWAY MIDDLE
ECCLESTON ELEMENTARY
HOWARD MIDDLE
INDEPENDENCE ELEMENTARY
MEADOW WOODS ELEMENTARY
METROWEST ELEMENTARY
MILLENNIA GARDENS ELEMENTARY
PINELOCH ELEMENTARY
SUNRIDGE ELEMENTARY
VISTA POINTE ELEMENTARY
SHARE WITH NONMEMBERS-TOP 10 REASONS TO JOIN
YOU ARE THE STRENGTH OF YOUR UNION!
We can accomplish more together than all alone
Stronger collective bargaining power to improve wages, benefits, and working conditions
Contract support for grievance process to protect your rights
Free Professional Development
Amplify your voice for pro-public education policies
CTA members-only benefits (like our new Dental/Vision plans) and FEA/NEA/AFT benefits
Representation when you need someone in your corner
Assistance with Evaluation system
Support network and community
Being part of the solution for change instead of passively accepting problems
2025-2026 MEMBERSHIP GOAL: Each school will increase membership by 5% and we will reach 60% in overall membership density.
CTA BENEFITS
CTA BENEFITS
NEA MEMBER BENEFITS SWEEPSTAKES: The NEA Member Benefits Annual Giveaway is back! Members can enter the Choose Your Cruise Sweepstakes for a chance to win a 4-night cruise to Mexico or the Caribbean, plus $250 in Vacation Cash. Two lucky educators will win! Entries close December 22, 2025.
MEMBER ASSIST: MemberAssist is here to handle life’s everyday headaches so you don’t have to. From the small stuff to the big stuff, we’ve got you covered: Fixing a leaky faucet, planning a vacation, finding a doctor, booking childcare, pet care, senior care, movers, and more! How it works: Submit a request any time; no task is too big or too small. Our expert LifeConcierges handle it for you. Sign up here: memberassist.net Less stress, more life. Start using MemberAssist today!
Already a member? Join the MemberAssist referral program. Every time a colleague signs up with your referral link, you score guaranteed rewards, no luck, no drawings, just real perks for spreading the word. Sign up here: https://app.getoveralls.com/dashboard
CTA DENTAL/VISION: NEW Optional CTA Member Benefits Are Here! — available to members at special rates. Visit ctabenefits.com or call 305-613-5192 to enroll. Optional benefits include:
CTA MEMBERS SAVING THOUSANDS!: Don't miss out on your chance to save significantly on your homeowners insurance. We have many members who are saving thousands each year currently.
Contact ctabenefits.com or call 305-613-5192 to enroll. Optional benefits include:
Dental & Vision
Aflac (Accident, Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, BenExtend)
Disability Insurance
Life and Long-Term Care
Cosmetic/elective coverage (fertility, weight loss, medspa, and more)
Legal Protection & ID Theft
Pet Insurance
Auto & Home Insurance
FEA BENEFITS: You must be an FEA member to be eligible. Access the registration page by logging in to the FEA member side of the website.
Other benefits through CTA include:
THE NEA TRAVEL PROGRAM: This is a free benefit for NEA members. Receive exclusive deals and discounts, saving you up to 60% on hotels, car rentals, cruises, and more. Plus earn NEA Travel Dollars to use like cash along the way and help you save even more (1 credit = 1 USD). New to the program? Enroll for free today and earn $500 Travel Dollars on NEA! Valid for one year and replenished annually.
SUNCOAST CREDIT UNION: Thinking about retirement, but not sure if the Florida Deferred Retirement Option Program (DROP) is the right fit for you? DROP allows employees in the Florida Retirement System (FRS) to keep working while continuing to build their retirement benefits. This webinar will cover:
How to determine the income you'll need for retirement
Options for replacing income in retirement
Understanding DROP, how to qualify, and more
To learn more and register, visit invest.suncoast.com/events
LABOR MOVEMENT HISTORY
LABOR MOVEMENT HISTORY
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