Chaparral 2023-2024: Gaining Equity with Garfield Site Representative Andres Cruz

In this issue, we asked Garfield Site Representative Andres Cruz to look at what he has been able to do at Garfield and what he wants to do next. Here’s what he shared:

Chaparral: In your current role, share one past success or achievement.

Andres: During the spring and summer of 2023, a significant number of new adjuncts in the Noncredit ESL Division were hired to meet the fast growing demand for Noncredit ESL courses. In the last two semesters, some processes and policies have also changed. Therefore, we were getting many emails, especially from newly-hired adjuncts, about errors and discrepancies in their paychecks.

We spent countless hours collaborating with other Guild colleagues, communicating with colleagues in other departments, and holding meetings to inform teachers about these paycheck issues. Even though many newly-hired teachers were not fully aware of the changes in our contractual agreement as it pertains to adjunct salary, there were other teachers (part-time and full-time) who had been underpaid.

After many hours, emails, and conversations, we helped teachers get their paychecks as quickly as possible.

Chaparral: What are you really proud of? This can be things that are in progress, may not be fully realized but that have had impact.

Andres: I am proud to advocate for teacher equity. Making sure teachers get their checks and solve any paycheck issues as quickly as possible is one of my priorities. I know how hard my colleagues work and how they go above and beyond to serve GCC. We often talk about “poverty being a paycheck away,” so the least I can do is to make sure teachers get every penny they have worked for.

Chaparral: Building on your progress and success, what is your vision for the future in your role.

Andres: I want to learn more about changes in policies, contracts, and processes. Furthermore, I want to learn more about how these changes impact teachers and what I can do to help address these issues when they happen. That is why it is critical to build strong relationships with other colleagues, collaborate with other apartments, attend meetings, and remain vigilant to make sure teachers are paid, honored, and respected.