VIDEO: UTLA President Gloria Martinez explains the analysis presented to the school board this week by the Fiscal Crisis Management Assistance team. The FCMAT uses a rigged scoring system that mislabels school districts’ financial outlook.

UTLA educators have fought for and won major progress for students, our communities, and the future of our profession over the last three contract campaigns. Taking action together, UTLA members have stood up to the establishment and against balancing the budget on the backs of students and staff.  

But the same establishment is fighting back. This week, the Fiscal Crisis Management Assistance team (FCMAT) presented a so-called “analysis” to the school board using a rigged scoring system with a predetermined outcome. The report was triggered by the LA County Office of Education. (Read more on how the FCMAT analysis is scored.) 

Despite scoring “moderate risk” by their own assessment, FCMAT designated LAUSD as “high risk” in their final report. In fact, of the school districts they have assessed since 2020, FCMAT has given 99% a “high risk” designation. 

The assessment does not reflect realistic projections or consider potential increases to revenue. The analysis even penalized LAUSD for having a higher proportion of Special Education students and the cost of providing their services. This is because the FCMAT assessment looks at a school district like a business — with a primary focus on cuts, not students. 

There is a path where the needs of our schools are put first by working in collaboration with educators, staff, and families to solve the real budget issues and secure more funding. It is up to us to force the district down that path. 

It starts with committing to fight cuts and knocking on doors. We can reroute LAUSD by  passing Prop 3 this November to preserve $839 million in annual funding for LAUSD — money that goes straight to classroom needs and educator salaries — and getting the candidates who will stand alongside us against cuts. 

Every vote counts. Get your ballot in early. Ballot drop boxes are now open, with early voting centers opening October 24. Check that you are registered to vote, and review the UTLA Endorsements page to learn more about key November 3 races.