Connecticut Education Association Statement

August 22, 2012

Statement from CEA President Sheila Cohen on State Department of Education Annual Back to School Meeting

CEA President Sheila Cohen said she was gratified to hear top state education officials today recognize the key role that teachers will play in implementing Public Act 12-116 effectively.

Diane Ullman, chief talent officer for the State Department of Education, addressed school superintendents at their annual back to school meeting today saying, "leading from the classroom has to be one of our mantras" in school reform.

State officials acknowledged today that they have failed to invest in teacher development in a serious way in the past, but are committed to ratcheting up support and developing teacher talent.

Cohen said, "Teachers will embrace opportunities to become the best teachers they can be. Already this summer, in districts that are piloting the new teacher evaluation guidelines, teachers are stepping up and devising strategies that they expect will be fair and robust."

Cohen said, "High-quality teachers are the greatest asset in public education. We are pleased that the process guiding implementation of Public Act 12-116 is relying on their experience in the classroom and their knowledge of how to help students succeed."

Governor Malloy today announced that 10 new sites for school-based family resource centers have been selected to provide an array of additional wraparound services for children and their families. Cohen said, "For decades, CEA has been a strong proponent of expansion of family resource centers. These supports are critical if students, families, and teachers are to attain new higher goals."

The Connecticut Education Association represents 43,000 teachers in Connecticut.

Contact: Kathy Frega - kathyf@cea.org or Nancy Andrews - nancya@cea.org or call 860.725-6315