May 2026 CSEA 262 Newsletter

Special thanks to Robert Bledsoe for providing pictures.


Message from our CSEA 262 Chief Steward, Robin Cash

Our goal as a chapter is to ensure every member is treated with dignity and that we follow our contract. To serve you best, it’s important to clarify when and how a Steward should be involved in manager interactions.

Union representation is a specific right, typically reserved for meetings that may lead to disciplinary action (Weingarten Rights). For day-to-day operational communication, we encourage all members to maintain direct, professional lines of dialogue with their supervisors. Learning to navigate these professional conversations is a key skill for career growth.

When you do request representation, please remember that our Stewards perform 'fact-finding' first. This isn't a lack of support; it is how we build the strongest possible case for you. We aren't just there to attend; we are there to ensure the contract is protected.


39 Years of CSEA Service

We are back again with a special get to know a member 100th anniversary issue! Have you wondered who is the longest standing member of our union? Well wonder no longer and allow me to introduce you to…


Know Your Rights

Weingarten Rights

Weingarten rights guarantee an employee the right to Union representation during an investigatory interview. These rights, established by the Supreme Court, in 1975 in the case of J. Weingarten Inc., must be claimed by the employee.


Level Up and Invest in You: Professional Development


Member Pet Parade

Share a photo of your precious pet pal and get entered into a raffle for prizes.

Click here to submit your photo

Contributors

Authors: Eric Contreras, Carlos Duarte, Cynthia Orr, and Robin Cash

Design Team: Lisa DiDonato

Photos Provided By: Robert Bledsoe

October 2025 CSEA 262 Newsletter

Special thanks to Robert Bledsoe and Aaron Mezzano for providing pictures.

Get to know an e-board member

In this issue, we interviewed E-Board Member Raelyn Alvarez. Learn more about who she is and what she does for the union.

Know your Rights-Job Steward Program

Click here to read more about what the Job Steward Program is and how it benefits you as a CSEA Member.

A question from a member

Dear Stew,

I am so excited about working 32 hours a week in the summer! I am just not sure I really understand how it will work for me and my manager. Additionally, I have two part-time classified employees in my area, one 47% and one 80%. How will this work for them?

Thanks!!

-Summer Dreamer

Click here to read the answer!

Negotiations Update

Outstanding news, chapter members! Our negotiations team has negotiated several agreements with the district.

Read more for the highlights…

CSEA 262: Benefits Beyond Advocacy - Unlocking Your Perks, Savings, and Support

Wondering what’s available to you as a member of CSEA? Click here to learn more about the opportunities, protections, perks, and other rewards that you may not have known are available to you as a CSEA member!


Want to check out the poll results from our last newsletter?


Contributors

Authors: Eric Contreras, Carlos Duarte, Eva Figueroa, Cynthia Orr, and Lisa DiDonato

CSEA 262 President: Brandon Gillett

Design Team: Eva Figueroa, Amanda James, and Ramiro Pinedo

Editor-in-Chief: Lisa DiDonato

Proofreaders: Amanda James, Cynthia Orr, and Ramiro Pinedo

Secretary: Amanda James

Pictures Provided By: Robert Bledsoe and Aaron Mezzano