Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/389203
AEA Advocate x Special Election Edition 2014 7 AT THE CAPITOL Education Day of Action Many AEA members took action during the Primary Election season, knocking on doors and making phone calls in support of AEA's recommended candidates this past summer. About 20 came to the Education Day of Action on August 2, at AEA headquarters in Phoenix to call voters and encourage them to vote for candidates that support public education as early balloting began. These volunteers were joined by AEA's recommended candidate for superintendent, David Garcia, who made phone calls alongside our members to get out the vote. Representatives Bob Robson (R-LD18), Heather Carter (R-LD15), and Lela Alston (D-LD24) also stopped by to thank members for their support. Joann Martin is a Phoenix Union Classroom Teachers Association member and a teacher at North High School. She also received the High School Teacher of Excellence Award from the National Council for English Teachers this past year. She participated in phone banking on the Education Day of Action because she believes it's important for educators to get involved in political action. "Teachers in Arizona face many challenges today because of budget cuts and by getting involved we can ensure voters elect candidates who will support our public schools. When we support these candidates, we're not just supporting public education, we are also supporting Arizona's one million public school students." The statewide Day of Action for the General Election is Saturday, October 11, which follows the mailing of early ballots for the election. This is an opportunity for local associations to take action on races or campaigns of their choice, whether it's in support of school board candidates or district overrides, and engage more members in getting involved in building local power. By taking action to influence local elections, you have a say about who decides policy that impacts your students and your work. Be sure to check with your local association leaders to find out how you can get involved in the October Day of Action. 2 tinyurl.com/ACTION10-11 AEA is compiling the list of actions from across the state and publicizing the involvement of members and supporters… and how to be a part of the action! What is your local association planning? REGISTER YOUR ACTION HERE Take part in your local association's action to strengthen your voice! Your involvement can impact school board and override elections, and congressional, legislative and statewide races. Visit vote4schoolsaz.com for more information. Rep. Bob Robson, pictured second from left, with AEA members taking action for the Primary Election. L to R: CTA member Joann Martin, Roosevelt EA member Katie Paetz, and Superintendent candidate David Garcia making phone calls to get out the vote.