On September 21st several educational assistants attended a meeting to learn what they can do to make improvements in their career ladder. Tiffany Fiser, AFT-NM representative, explained what school employees can do help lobbyist effect change in the upcoming legislative session. The union is asking for $188 million dollars of the $300 million dollar budget surplus be allocated for educational funding. Writing letters to your legislators makes a big difference. Our legislators refuse to believe we need more money unless they hear from you, personally.
Another thing school employees can do is testify in front of the legislature in Santa Fe on Oct. 26th, starting at 8:00 A.M.. Let them know how the current NCLB act has impacted you and your paycheck. This is an empowering and effective way to make yourself heard. The union is distributing postcards that you can sign and send to your legislators. Please contact your building rep. to get one of these cards.
Thanks to these members who attended the meeting:
Theresa Archuleta, Maria Vasquez, Ana Pacheco, Berna Romero, Tanya Vargas, Valerie Tafoya and Beth Tafoya