ACE Executive Board Leadership Update

ACE Executive Board Invests Their Time Off to Build a Strong and Effective Union

Strengthening Leadership for a Stronger ACE

Our Executive Board’s retreat was not just another meeting but a deliberate effort to enhance clarity, accountability, and effectiveness within our organization. The day began with a thorough review of ACE’s by-laws, ensuring that every board member is well-versed in the guiding principles that define our responsibilities. This deep dive wasn’t about making changes but about equipping each leader with the knowledge needed to support CUSD educators effectively. By revisiting these foundational documents, our board reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the values and vision of ACE with transparency and purpose.​

Clarifying Roles for Effective Advocacy

A significant portion of the retreat focused on defining roles within the Executive Board. Through breakout sessions tailored to each position, our leaders reflected on their responsibilities—not just according to the by-laws but through their personal experiences and aspirations for ACE. This process wasn’t merely about titles; it was about ensuring that each board member is empowered and held accountable to lead with integrity and impact. When our leaders clearly understand their duties, they are better positioned to support us in advocating for our rights, negotiating effectively, and supporting the diverse needs of our students.​

Organizing for Greater Impact

To better support us as educators effectively, the ACE Executive Board dedicated time to streamline documents, reports, and electronic work. This effort underscores ACE’s commitment to efficiency and organization, ensuring that ACE operates with the precision needed to protect and advocate for Clovis Unified educators. Discussions also encompassed planning for the remainder of the academic year, preparing for upcoming elections, and exploring ways to expand the Executive Board to include more voices, such as our ASL Interpreters and Sierra Outdoor School Naturalists. By proactively addressing these key topics, our ACE Executive board demonstrates that they are not just reacting to challenges but actively shaping the future of ACE.​

Why This Matters for Clovis Unified Educators and Students

As educators, we understand that strong leadership is the backbone of any successful organization. When our ACE Executive Board dedicates time to enhance their leadership skills and strengthen internal operations, it directly impacts our schools, our working conditions, and, most importantly, our students. A well-organized, informed, and united Executive Board is better equipped to advocate for our rights, fight for fair policies, and ensure we have the resources to provide the best education possible.​ Their willingness to dedicate their time to this work is a testament to their commitment—not just to ACE but to each of us as educators and our students who depend on strong educational leadership. The time, energy, and effort invested in strengthening ACE empower it to be a powerful advocate for Clovis Unified educators. This commitment drives our collective voice forward and shapes a brighter future for our educational community.

A Call to Action: Strengthen Our Collective Voice

This moment is not the beginning—it’s the continuation of a sustained, profoundly committed effort by educators who believe in the power of standing together. For the last three years, we have been organizing, showing up, and building something that truly reflects the voices and values of Clovis Unified educators.

The work our Executive Board has done—on their own time, with our students in mind—is just one example of the kind of leadership and integrity that defines this movement. It’s not about power; it’s about service. It’s about creating a structure where every CUSD educator feels seen, supported, and heard.

If you haven’t already, now is the time to stand with your colleagues. Sign the ACE union support petition. Join a CUSD educator movement grounded in care, shaped by action, and driven by the belief that when we lift our voices as educators, we also lift our students.

Together, we can create an environment where educators and students thrive, fostering a brighter future for our entire community.

The Standard

Protect Yourself So You Can Focus on Students

As momentum builds among CUSD educators advocating for change, CTA membership offers real, practical tools you can use right now—starting with CTA-endorsed Disability and Life Insurance plans. These aren’t just fringe benefits—they’re essential protections designed specifically for educators and backed by The Standard.

Disability Insurance for Educators

We’ve all seen how quickly life can throw a curveball. These plans are built for the all-too-common moments that can disrupt everything:

• Recovering from surgery or managing a serious illness.
• Navigating complications from pregnancy or healing after childbirth.
• Facing a cancer diagnosis that requires your full attention.
• Reaching summer break and losing your paycheck—while still living with a disability.
• Struggling with student loan payments while out of work.

Or, in the most devastating case, a family left behind without the financial support they need.

With CTA-endorsed Disability Insurance, you get:

• Up to 80% of your paycheck replaced if you’re out due to illness, injury, pregnancy, or childbirth.
• A Student Loan Benefit: Up to $400/month (for 6 months) to ease the financial burden while you’re unable to work.
• A Cancer Benefit: Up to $400/month (for 6 months) if your claim is cancer-related.
• A Summer Benefit: $500/week during June and July if you’re still disabled—so you’re not left without income when school’s out.

With CTA-endorsed Life Insurance, you get:

A Matching Accidental Death & Dismemberment benefit, doubling your policy (up to $200,000) in case of accidental death. Special enrollment windows to increase your coverage—no medical questions required.

CUSD Educators: These Benefits Are Here for You

We dedicate ourselves to supporting others—it’s time we made sure we’re protected, too. These benefits are available now to every CUSD educator who’s a CTA member.

Don’t wait until you need them. Take advantage. Spread the word. Keep building the future our students—and we—deserve.

👉 Learn more: CTAMemberBenefits.org/TheStandard