The Santa Monica-Malibu Classroom Teachers Association, Education Workers of SEIU Local 99, Santa Monicans for Renters’ Rights, and the Los Angeles County Federation of Labor are endorsing Ralph Mechur, Oscar de la Torre, Laurie Lieberman, and Richard Tahvildaran-Jesswein for the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District Board of Education.
SEIU Local 99 Interim Executive Director Scott Washburn said these candidates have their support because they understand that student success depends on what happens inside and outside the classroom.
“They know that students need great teachers and a full team of caring support staff to ensure they can learn in a clean, safe, healthy and supportive environment,” Washburn said.
Sarah Braff, President of the Santa Monica-Malibu Classroom Teachers Association, said whether its members work in the classroom or in the school cafeteria, workers at Santa Monica-Malibu Unified share a deep commitment to helping students learn and succeed.
“We are proud to come together in support of candidates who value the contributions of all workers on campus and who share our goal of providing a high quality education for all students,” Braff said.
Patricia Hoffman, Santa Monicans for Renters’ Rights co-chair, said successful schools are at the heart of a great community.
“These candidates show a commitment to our students and are dedicated to making Santa Monica an even better city,” Hoffman said.
Maria Elena Durazo, Executive Secretary Treasurer of the L.A. County Federation of Labor, said these candidates share the same values as working families.
“When parents have good jobs, children have the stability they need to learn and excel in school,” Durazo said.
Election day is Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2014.
