I am excited to be CUTA’s new president. Lance Brogden, from PVHS is our new vice-president. New members to the executive board include Maria Elena Ramirez (Rosedale), Linda Serrato (Rosedale), Jenn Flory (PVHS) and Jim Nash (BJHS). Returning members to the E-board are Treasurer Nancy Teramoto (Parkview), Secretary Sarah Jensen (CJHS) as well as Kerry Quevedo (Emma Wilson), Mark Rodriquez (Marigold), Michael Specchierla (Elementary Teacher Librarian), Bart Panek (Little Chico Creek), Sue Christensen (PVHS), Bill Flory (PVHS), Liz Mosher (CJHS), and Mike Christensen (PVHS).

I have two goals for CUTA.

First, is to work with members to find at least one thing they’d be willing and happy to do for the union. It may be serving as a member of Rep Council or pouring coffee at this year’s pancake breakfast. We have many opportunities currently; Relay for Life, BBQ at the Torres Shelter, Empty Bowls, NPR and KZFR membership drives, social events, Habitat for Humanity, as well as joining one of our committees such as CUTAPAC or Organizing. If something else interests you, please let me know. I want CUTA to get its name out in the community in as many positive ways as possible. If you are currently involved in some kind of community activity, let’s work together to find 5 or 10 other members to join you. You’ll be doing what you love, you’ll just be doing it with a CUTA button or apron on.

Second, I would like us to work with the District to develop and clarify some of the procedures that seem to cause so much anxiety. To begin with, let’s clarify voluntary and involuntary transfer as well as moving from temporary to permanent status. I believe if we know what the rules are and if those rules are applied consistently we’ll all be happier. I think this will be good for both us and for the District. Chico is a great place to live. Together we can make Chico Unified a great place to work.

Have a great summer,

Kevin Moretti