CTA is launching a release time program for local presidents to lead and carry out a site-based organizing program within their chapter. The goal of these efforts is threefold:

• To increase union membership, expand site leadership and member participation, and run successful campaigns to win on issues that members, students and communities care about;
• To take effective collective action to solve site-based issues and win strong contracts;
• To join together with other CTA chapters to more effectively address key statewide issues like school funding, educator recruitment and retention, and attacks on public education.

The program will launch in January 2024 and run through June 2025. Presidents can join the program at the start of each new semester (Spring 2024, Fall 2024, Spring 2025). Online application for the January 2024 start opens in mid-October; application for the Fall 2024 start will open next spring.

The president release time for organizing will be by formula with up to certain amounts that don’t exceed full-time release. Chapter leaders can contact their PCS or board member for details and to apply.