Educators living in Paradise taught in as many as 20 surrounding districts in seven different counties.  Many lost their homes.  Some lost their classrooms and students.  Too many lost loved ones. On February 2 CTA hosted the Teachers Thrive Together healing conference for educators affected by the recent California Wildfires. 

The gathering, held in a Chico gym, was a time for sharing stories, comfort and caring.  Speakers from the Santa Rosa and Middle Town fires spoke briefly on their experiences, saying they were pleased to be able to pay it forward after the caring support they had received.  The attendees gathered informally in a circle on these subjects: Homes Lost – Personal Tragedy, Classrooms/Schools Lost, Survivor’s Remorse, and Lesson Learned.  They reported out on “AHA” moments, what did or did not help and received resources and ideas on how to help colleagues who were still too traumatized to attend the event.

Teachers said the love of colleagues and the generosity of the entire education community has been, and continues to be, overwhelming.  CTA members continue fundraising efforts and providing support to Paradise area educators.