For the first time in fifteen years, there is new leadership in the IFT and they’re number one focus is INCREASING REVENUE in the state of Illinois. For far too long, we have been told by Illinois leaders they are “doing the best they can,” “this all we can afford,” or “wait till next year.” The new IFT leadership is committed to increasing revenue to address Evidence Based Funding, Tier 2 Pensions, and Higher Education Funding. The new leadership outlined their plans in Resolution 1 so that people could hold them accountable to the commitment they made to the membership. The 1211 Delegation took part in approving 26 resolutions in total that will support PreK-20 Educators, PSRPs, Public Employees, and Retirees within the IFT. These resolutions serve as a blueprint for the work of the IFT throughout the next three years.

Even with all this incredible work throughout the weekend, I was also continually consumed with heartbreak and pain for our greater school community. Many of our members have reached out about ICE agents invading their neighborhoods and communities. Family members, friends, and neighbors have been scared and traumatized by the actions of the federal government. How our students are affected impacts all of us in education. I know that many of our school districts have very specific rules and directives as to what should be done on school grounds.  I know District 211 and District 214 have made those resources available on their websites.

Local 1211 has partnered with the IFT and Partners for our Communities (POC) to provide a palm card for community members. This is NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION IN SCHOOLS, but if you want a resource for the community or for your neighbors, Local 1211 is here to provide support. The palm card is in Spanish and English, has a number for legal support, and directions pre/during/post ICE detentions. Palm cards are available at our Union office.

Lastly, but still very importantly, there has been a lot of division between members regarding politics. All 2700 members of the Northwest Suburban Teachers Union Local 1211 are “The Union.” As President of Local 1211, I know that our Union can only be effective if ALL our members are working together, which is why we make our decisions focused on educational issues. I always welcome a discussion around how we can grow Local 1211 and support everyone.  If you feel your voice is not being heard, please call me, email me, or join a Local meeting.

In Solidarity,

Steven Elza

President - Northwest Suburban Teachers Union, Local 1211