My UTLA Endorsements for 2014

I typically stay out of UTLA internal politics. Unlike the nonprofit industrial complex (NPIC), and our own government, unions are intensely democratic institutions where the members really demonstrate self governance. However, with the forces of neoliberalism on the verge of privatizing the remains of public education, I realize that public sector unions are the last bastion against the plutocracy crushing the remains of the public commons under their well-heeled jackboots. In the past year I've watched sectarian groups rise up in UTLA. The divisiveness and disruptiveness of their tactics have undermined UTLA's ability to serve as a buffer between the ravages of finance capital and our community. In the light of this, I decided to compile a list of people that have proven themselves as activists and champions of public education. They are people who have worked hand in hand with the community to stave off neoliberal policies, fight privatization, advocate for underrepresented students like ELLs and Special Needs, and more. I may revise this list slightly, but for the most part, it is complete. I've kept the names in the same order they appear on UTLA's roster.

UTLA President

There are many people running for this position, too bad José Lara, Sean Abajian, and Lisa Karahalios' names aren't among them.

UTLA NEA Vice President

M. J. (Mary Jan) Roberts: a tireless advocate of children. She really should be the LAUSD Superintendent, then we'd see some real changes.

UTLA AFT Vice President

Lisa Karahalios: smart, savvy, and indefatigable. There's rarely an event she is not a participant in. The depth and breadth of her policy insight exceeds even mine. Honestly she should have run for UTLA President. Moreover, she was a Classics major!

UTLA Elementary VP (multiple endorsement)

Juan Ramirez: champion of ELLs and luminary in Spanish speaking community. Co-founded La Educación radio and newspaper.

Robin Potash: articulate and savvy organizer. Her work on Prop 39 issues, on exposing CCSS faults, and with Jackie Goldberg on Transparency, Equity, and Accountability for Charters (TEACh) is crucial.

Fernando Bravo Ledezma

UTLA Secondary VP (dual endorsement)

Colleen Schwab

Francisco R. Martinez Avid immigrant rights supporter, and all around activist. We had great conversations during OccupyLAUSD

UTLA Treasurer

Tim Delia

UTLA Secretary (dual endorsement)

Tomás Flores: an excellent supporter of bilingual programs, and active member of Raza Ed.

David Lyell: was instrumental in the struggle to save LAUSD Adult Education, and contributed to my school board run.

UTLA Board of Directors - North Area

Matthew Kogan: (FOR AREA CHAIR) his organizing capabilities have proven time and again that we can energize the community for real change.

Anne Zerrien-Lee: there is no better activist, writer, or advocate for children than Anne. She is one of those very special people that one feels privileged to know.

Jeff Pott

UTLA Board of Directors - South Area

Ingrid C. Villeda: (FOR AREA CHAIR) has led the fight on many key social justice issues and isn't afraid to take on billionaire backed right-wing organizations like the vile Parent Revolution.

Maria Miranda

Ayde Bravo

Ayesha Brooks

UTLA Board of Directors - East Area

Ingrid Gunnell

Mila Lopez

Gloria Martinez

Gillian Russom (FOR AREA CHAIR)

Amelia Velasquez (FOR AREA CHAIR)

Adrian Tamayo

UTLA Board of Directors - West Area

Daniel Moran: perhaps the most unsung hero in our communities, Dan has worked tirelessly on behalf of students and does tremendous research for those of us that write about education issues.

Noah Lippe-Klein

UTLA Board of Directors - Central

Kelly Flores: incredible educator and activist, really should be on the list of presidential candidates. We need Kelly's voice advocating for those who need representation in our district.

Zulma Tobar

Paul Uchenna Ngwoke

Jose Lara: (FOR AREA CHAIR) hands down the best organizer in UTLA, maybe even in Los Angeles! Board Member of the El Rancho Unified School District. José should be running for UTLA president, but we'll have to settle for him as area chair.

UTLA Board of Directors - Valley East

Linda Everhart

Bobby Vinas

Victoria Casas

Alex Orozco: (FOR AREA CHAIR)

UTLA Board of Directors - Harbor

Ginger Rose Fox: (FOR AREA CHAIR) when you think arts advocacy, think Ginger Rose Fox.

Donald A. Willis

Jennie Duggan

Philip A. Gross

UTLA Board of Directors - Adult Ed

Ernest Kettenring

UTLA Board of Directors - Bilingual Ed

Cheryl Ortega: we're fortunate to keep our most experienced, dedicated individual at the helm of UTLA Bilingual Education.

UTLA Board of Directors - Early Childhood Education

Juanita C. Garcia: another person whose contributions to our community and students goes without the praise it deserves.

UTLA Board of Directors - Substitutes

Fredrick “Rick” Bertz: we don't always agree, but Rick works hard and is passionate about education. He will do the substitutes proud.

My UTLA Endorsements for 2014