Cecily Myart-Cruz has made history for the second time in her tenure by winning re-election as President of United Teachers Los Angeles (UTLA). Myart-Cruz, a teacher of 26 years and the proud parent of an LAUSD student, overwhelmingly won her reappointment as the first woman of color to lead UTLA since the union’s inception in 1970.
“The most direct way we can truly improve the lives of our students is to fight for just schools that value, respect and empower educators,” Myart-Cruz said. “I am more committed than ever to ensuring UTLA continues its laser-focus fight for a strong and equitable contract, proper funding and resources to make sure quality public education is available to all students, regardless of their zip code, and ensuring teachers and LAUSD support staff receive the dignity and respect they deserve.”
Cecily Myart Cruz’s re-election was imperative for educators, students and working families across Los Angeles. Since taking office in 2020, Myart-Cruz has successfully organized UTLA members and school families behind the strongest COVID health and safety measures in the country. She oversaw the democratic development of the Beyond Recovery Platform, a thorough set of demands created by UTLA members, parents, and community allies to ensure every student and school receives the full foundational support necessary.
Furthermore, Myart-Cruz has brought a common-sense approach to our schools, advocating to put billions of dollars back in our schools, lower class sizes and create safe and supportive learning environments so that every student can thrive.
Voting ran from February 7 to February 28, where members were able to cast ballots for the seven citywide officer positions and seats on the UTLA Board of Directors. Ballots for the UTLA citywide elections were counted today by an independent voting company.