Re-Elect
Cheryl Ortega
UTLA Board of Directors
Bilingual Education

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An Experienced Leader and Advocate


For 38 years I have been a teacher of English learners. In the last few years, as we have seen bilingual programs systematically dismantled, the need for advocacy is greater than ever.

English learners are the largest subgroup of students in the District and we must make a commitment to them to insure that high-quality, appropriate programs are provided, respecting the legal choices that parents make for their children.

Inappropriate programs, such as Foro Abierto (the literally translated Open Court), are hurting students. The arbitrary closing of programs is unjust and a protocol dealing with this abuse of power must be established.

I will do everything possible to maintain and expand the vision for civil and language rights. Establishing good working relationships with the Language Acquisition Branch of the District has been very productive in training teachers in language-appropriate teaching strategies and clarifying district policy and state law. Expanding parent and community dialogue is the highest priority for there is truth in the axiom that rights unknown or unused are rights denied.

“ I have confidence that Cheryl will expand and strengthen the rights of students, teachers, and parents through her tireless advocacy of bilingual education.”

-- Marina Salas , Chair UTLA Bilingual Education Committee, Former UTLA Board of Directors, Bilingual Education

Paid for by the
United Action Election Committee, 1630 Pasadena Glen Rd. Pasadena 91107

The information herein represents the views and opinions of the candidates and does not necessarily represent or reflect the opinions of UTLA

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  Experience Counts!

  • 38 years teaching and advocating for bilingual education
  • Member of first cadre of pilot bilingual program, 1973
  • UTLA Bilingual Committee Member for over 13 years
  • Member of Coordinating Team and presenter for the UTLA Bilingual Ed. Conference
  • Organizer for community outreach programs for bilingual education
  • Chapter Chair, Logan Street Elementary School
  • UTLA House of Representatives
  • Presenter at the conference of California Association of Bilingual Education (CABE)

     

A Vision for Language Rights

Cheryl will:

  • Advocate for access to bi literacy for all students
  • Advocate for the rights of bilingual teachers including continuation of the BCLAD differential and restoration of the CLAD differential
  • Demand that District instructional policies be consistent with research and best practices.
  • Support forming a base of UTLA leaders to halt the scapegoat of bilingual students and their teachers
  • Continue to form alliances with LAUSD officers that support the civil rights of English learners