Articles for Chapter Newsletters
Promoting CTA Member Benefits through your local chapter newsletter is easy. Just check out the newsletter articles drafted by CTA Member Benefits.
11/9/2023 (download)
Limited Time Opportunity for CTA Members to Switch Disability Insurance Coverage with No Health Questions
10/10/2023 (download)
REMINDER: Register now for CTA Member Benefits Pre-Conference at New Educator Weekend (North)!
10/10/2023 (download)
Special enrollment opportunity for new hires and district transfers for CTA-endorsed Disability and Life insurance
8/16/2023 (download)
The CTA 403(b) Retirement Plan for Educators
7/18/2023 (download)
Provident Credit Union $2,500 Teacher Appreciation Giveaway (Coming Soon)
6/21/2023 (download)
California Casualty’s Music and Arts Grant Program
6/21/2023 (download)
NEW! Summer Benefit for CTA-endorsed Disability Insurance
4/13/2023 (download)
Reduce Your Anxiety with Calm Resources
3/15/2023 (download)
Calm Sleep Stories
3/15/2023 (download)
Special Enrollment Opportunity for New Hires and District Transfers for CTA-endorsed Disability and Life Insurance
2/21/2023 (download)
Add Calm App Sign Up Instructions to Your Local’s Website
2/21/2023 (download)
CTA Members Get More with CTA-endorsed Life Insurance from The Standard
1/18/2023 (download)
The Standard Special New Hire Town Hall - February 7th at 4 p.m.
1/18/2023 (download)
Provident Credit Union Again Partners with NBC Sports Bay Area to Sponsor the 2023 All-Star Teacher Award
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Limited Time Opportunity for CTA Members to Switch Disability Insurance Coverage with No Health Questions
[Note to Chapter Leaders: If you choose to use this article for your newsletter or website, please use the article in its entirety and do not alter the text in any way other than to change the capitalization, typeface or point size to meet your publication's style guidelines.]
From October 1 through November 30, 2023, CTA members covered by a different Disability insurance plan have a special opportunity to apply for CTA-endorsed Disability from Standard Insurance Company without answering health questions. Before applying, members should compare their current plan with the CTA-endorsed plan to understand how any differences may impact their personal situation.
CTA-endorsed Disability insurance includes additional benefits at no additional cost. Learn more by watching this short video. Watch video.
Compare plans or learn how to switch coverage at standard.com/cta/portover.
For costs and further details of the coverage, including exclusions, benefit waiting periods and any reductions or limitations and the terms under which the policy may be continued in force, please contact Standard Insurance Company at 800.522.0406.
GP190-LTD/S399/CTA.1
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REMINDER: Register now for CTA Member Benefits Pre-Conference at New Educator Weekend (North)!
Come early on Friday for a special pre-conference at New Educator Weekend (North)
From your local association to the CTA and NEA, our union grows stronger as we unite. With a membership of 310,000 across the state and 3 million nationally, the CTA and NEA offer a diverse range of valuable union-endorsed benefits that come with your membership.
Explore the highlights of our most sought-after Member Benefits programs, encompassing discounts on shopping and travel, optional insurance packages, aid for relieving student debt, retirement plan, financial services, coverage for Educators Employment Liability (EEL), assistance from the Disaster Relief Fund, and more! These exclusive CTA and NEA Member Benefits are tailor-made for educators. As members become familiar with these programs, they discover newfound enthusiasm in uncovering additional ways through which their membership can serve as a solution to various personal and financial requirements.
- Stronger Together – Your Essential Guide to CTA/NEA Member Benefits
- CTA Stronger Together: Building Wealth for a Successful Retirement
We are providing release time for the pre-conference, which means CTA Member Benefits will reimburse your employer for your substitute on Friday, November 3rd, 2023 to assist with your availability to attend. Be sure to request release time and provide the necessary information when registering.
The Friday Pre-Conference is FREE to attend, and space is limited so don’t wait. Register today!
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Special enrollment opportunity for new hires and district transfers for CTA-endorsed Disability and Life insurance
[Note to Chapter Leaders: If you choose to use this article for your newsletter or website, please use the article in its entirety and do not alter the text in any way other than to change the capitalization, typeface or point size to meet your publication's style guidelines.]
Newly hired educators and education support professionals have a limited-time special opportunity to apply for CTA-endorsed Disability insurance and up to $400,000 in Life insurance1 from Standard Insurance Company without having to answer any health questions. The Standard is the only CTA-endorsed provider for Disability and Life insurance.
- Disability insurance can help protect CTA members’ paychecks if they’re unable to work due to an injury, illness (including mental health conditions) pregnancy or childbirth. They’ll receive funds paid directly to them to use for things health insurance doesn’t cover. Benefits can be used for rent, mortgage, groceries, student loans and more. Where health insurance pays your doctor, Disability insurance pays you.
- Life insurance helps protect CTA members’ loved ones in the event of their passing. They’ll also get access to additional features you can use now.
District Transfer? CTA members who previously had coverage with The Standard must re-apply to continue coverage at their new district as coverage doesn't automatically transfer.
Members must apply within 270 days from starting their new job.
Learn more or apply at standard.com/cta/newhire.
1 Coverage reduces to 65% of the amount in force at age 70, 45% of the amount in force at age 75 and 30% of the amount in force at age 80. Offer not available to retirees.
For costs and further details of the coverage and this enrollment opportunity, including the exclusions, benefit waiting periods, and reductions or limitations and the terms under which the policies may be continued in force, please contact Standard Insurance Company at 800.522.0406. GP190-LTD/S399/CTA.1 GP190-LIFE/S399/CTA.3
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The CTA 403(b) Retirement Plan for Educators
Dive into the benefits of the CTA 403(b) retirement plan designed for educators. Whether you're a new educator or transitioning between districts, this video guides you through the importance of supplementing your state pension, the flexibility of a 403(b), and how to set up your account with the California Teachers Association. Your path to a secure retirement starts here!
We have provided a short video about the CTA 403(b) program and an email template that you can share with your leaders.
Dear [New Hire First Name],
On behalf of the [Local Union Name] and all its members, I extend a heartfelt welcome to you as you begin your journey with [School District. As President of the Union, I am personally thrilled to see new faces with fresh perspectives, and I have no doubt that your expertise and passion will contribute greatly to our educational community.
Here at [Local Union Name], we are committed to supporting our members in every possible way. Our mission is to ensure that you have the tools, resources, and community support you need to thrive in your new role.
Retirement and 403(b) Video
I encourage you to take advantage of the benefits and resources that the union has to offer. One of those benefits is a great 403(b) program from the California Teachers Association (CTA). It is a low-cost, high benefit program.
Here is a short video about the CTA 403(b) program for new hires like yourself. There are many 403(b) programs available to you, but this is the only one endorsed by CTA.
If you have any questions about the CTA 403(b), CTA has dedicated fiduciary advisors to assist you. Please contact them here:
Telephone: 916.235.9800
Email: team@ctaretirementplan.org
Once again, welcome to the [Local Union] family, and congratulations on this new chapter in your career. I look forward to meeting you in person and working together for the betterment of our educational community.
Wishing you all the best in your endeavors,
Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
President, [Local Union Name]
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Provident Credit Union $2,500 Teacher Appreciation Giveaway (Coming Soon)
Since 1950, Provident Credit Union has served the needs of CTA, and in honor of all California teachers, Provident is hosting a $2,500 giveaway for all CTA members residing in California.
Spread the news and enter for your chance to win!
Enter the raffle at: www.providentcu.org/CTA
Entry Period: August 1 - October 31, 2023
Winner will be announced: November 8, 2023
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California Casualty’s Music and Arts Grant Program
CTA Members! California Casualty’s Music and Arts Grant program is back and will award individual members with a $250 grant for their classroom or program.
The California Casualty Music & Arts Grant was established to provide support for K-12 public schools negatively impacted by reduced budgets.
California Casualty has partnered with education associations for many years. We understand the importance of music and arts education for children. As a member of one of our partnering education associations, you can apply for a grant award of $250 for a music or art need at your school.
Applications are accepted through July 2nd! Apply today!
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NEW! Summer Benefit for CTA-endorsed Disability Insurance
[Note to Chapter Leaders: If you choose to use this article for your newsletter or website, please use the article in its entirety and do not alter the text in any way other than to change the capitalization, typeface or point size to meet your publication's style guidelines.]
Summer brings us some great things - barbecues, popsicles and summer fruit cobblers. And now, you can add the new Summer Benefit1 from CTA to the list! This exclusive benefit gives you extra protection during the months of June and July for Disabilities that occur on or after September 1, 2022 - even if you’re not scheduled to work! With no benefit waiting period, eligible members will receive an extra $500 a week during the months of June and July (up to a maximum of $4,500 per Benefit Year) on top of any other Voluntary Disability benefits if you become or continue to be Disabled.
Summer Benefit Highlights
- Included at no additional cost for members enrolled in CTA-endorsed Voluntary Disability insurance.
- You must meet the definition of Disability any time between June 1 and July 31 of any benefit year for Disabilities occurring on or after September 1, 2022.
- That’s it! It’s summer and things should be easy!
Summer Benefit is exclusively offered to CTA members enrolled in CTA-endorsed Voluntary Disability insurance. To apply for coverage, visit CTAMemberBenefits.org/TheStandard.
1 Summer Benefit is offered by CTA to eligible members who meet the Definition of Disability with a Disability date on or after 9/1/2022 who meet additional specific criteria. Summer Benefit is only payable during the calendar months of June and July, for up to two Benefit Years for each instance of qualifying Disability. Summer Benefit is not provided under the Voluntary Disability insurance policy. CTA provides this benefit at no extra cost and The Standard acts only as the claims administrator of this benefit.
For costs and further details of the coverage and this enrollment opportunity, including the exclusions, benefit waiting periods, and reductions or limitations and the terms under which the policy may be continued in force, please contact Standard Insurance Company at 800.522.0406. GP190-LTD/S399/CTA.1
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Reduce Your Anxiety with Calm Resources
Some occasional stress is a normal part of life, but when we experience high, prolonged stress, our nervous system gets stuck in “overdrive.” Our bodies and minds need time to recover after stressful experiences. We encourage you to try one of these mindfulness tools from Calm, our partner in mental well-being, to help ease feelings of stress and anxiety:
Here are some recommendations from Calm, our mental health partner, that you can do in anytime, anywhere:
- Whether you have 10, 20, or 30 minutes, try this guided meditation practice to release the mental and emotional energy of anxiety.
- Lessen your anxiety and feel more centered by doing a few stretches in a seated position, all in 7 minutes.
Calm Your Heart With Deeper Breaths
- Use this 3-minute guided exercise to quickly calm down when experiencing panic or anxiety.
Important Note: If you’re experiencing chronic anxiety, please reach out to your Benefits Contact/EAP liaison or your doctor for the appropriate medical resources and support.
Sign up for your free CTA Calm subscription! The Calm mobile app is available to all CTA members (active and retired) at no cost. Log into ctamemberbenefits.org/calm to register for your free subscription.
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Calm Sleep Stories
Sleep quality affects many areas of mental wellness. Calm sleep stories can help you fall asleep, get a restful night of sleep, and stay asleep. 56% of Calm users use these unique Sleep Stories to drift off.
Have you signed up for your free CTA Calm subscription? The Calm mobile app is available to all CTA members (active and retired) at no cost. Log into ctamemberbenefits.org/calm to register for your free subscription.
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Special Enrollment Opportunity for New Hires and District Transfers for CTA-endorsed Disability and Life Insurance
[Note to Chapter Leaders: If you choose to use this article for your newsletter or website, please use the article in its entirety and do not alter the text in any way other than to change the capitalization, typeface or point size to meet your publication's style guidelines.]
CTA members new to their districts this school year need to act soon! They have 270 days from starting their new job to apply for CTA-endorsed Disability insurance and up to $400,0001 in Life insurance from Standard Insurance Company without having to answer any health questions. The Standard is the only CTA-endorsed provider for Disability and Life insurance.
- Disability insurance can help protect CTA members’ paychecks if they’re unable to work due to an injury, illness, pregnancy or childbirth. They’ll receive funds paid directly to them to use for things health insurance doesn’t cover. Benefits can be used for rent, mortgage, groceries, student loans and more. Where health insurance pays your doctor, Disability insurance pays you.
- Life insurance helps protect CTA members’ loved ones in the event of their passing. They’ll also get access to additional features they can use now.
District Transfer? CTA members who previously had coverage with The Standard must re-apply to continue coverage at their new district as coverage doesn't automatically transfer.
Watch a short video on this opportunity: stdrd.co/newhirevideo
Learn more or apply at standard.com/cta/newhire.
1 Coverage reduces to 65% of the amount in force at age 70, 45% of the amount in force at age 75 and 30% of the amount in force at age 80. Offer not available to retirees.
For costs and further details of the coverage and this enrollment opportunity, including the exclusions, benefit waiting periods, and reductions or limitations and the terms under which the policies may be continued in force, please contact Standard Insurance Company at 800.522.0406. GP190-LTD/S399/CTA.1 GP190-LIFE/S399/CTA.3
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Add Calm App Sign Up Instructions to Your Local’s Website
You can copy and paste the image and instructions below:
How to Activate Calm Subscription for CTA Members
To activate your Calm subscription, please make sure you are logged in to www.CTAMemberBenefits.org/calm
Once you are logged in, under How to Enroll, scan the QR code or use the unique CTA link to activate your account.
Once on the CTA Calm page:
- Sign into your existing Calm account or create an account
- Enter your 10-digit CTA member ID in the box provided to activate the subscription on your Calm account. If you don't know your CTA member ID, please call the CTA Member Benefits Department at (650) 552-5200
- Download the Calm app and log in to your account to access the Premium account
- The Premium account will allow you to add up to 5 dependents
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CTA Members Get More with CTA-endorsed Life Insurance from The Standard
CTA members enrolled in CTA-endorsed Life insurance have access to features and services they can use today and beneficiaries can use in the future.
Life Services ToolKit1 collection of online tools and services that can help you create a will and put your finances in order. Beneficiary services are good for 12 months after a loss and includes grief support, legal services, financial counseling and more.
Travel Assistance1 provides access to travel and medical emergency assistance services including prescription refill assistance, medical referrals, credit card and passport replacement, emergency cash coordination and more.
Both services are included with CTA-endorsed Life insurance at no extra cost!
How to Learn More
Watch a short video about CTA-endorsed Life insurance: stdrd.co/lifevideo.
Learn more or apply for CTA-endorsed Life insurance at CTAMemberBenefits.org/Life.
1 Travel Assistance and Life Services Toolkit are provided through an arrangement with service partners that are not affiliated with The Standard. These services are not insurance products.
For costs and further details of the coverage, including exclusions, benefit waiting periods, any reductions or limitations and the terms under which the policy may be continued in force, please contact Standard Insurance Company at 800.522.0406. Standard Insurance Company, 1100 SW Sixth Avenue, Portland, OR 97204. GP190-LIFE/S399/CTA.3
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The Standard Special New Hire Town Hall - February 7th at 4 p.m.
Members new to your district have a limited-time opportunity to apply for CTA-endorsed Disability insurance and up to $400,000 of Life insurance1 without answering health questions. You and your new hires/district transfers are invited to learn more at our Town Hall on February 7th at 4 p.m.
We’ll cover:
- New Hire and District Transfer special enrollment opportunity
- CTA-endorsed Disability and Life insurance plans
- Extra benefits for CTA members
- How to enroll
- Q&A
Registration is required: stdrd.co/townhallfeb7
1 Coverage reduces to 65% of the amount in force at age 70, 45% of the amount in force at age 75 and 30% of the amount in force at age 80. Offer not available to retirees.
For costs and further details of the coverage and this enrollment opportunity, including the exclusions, benefit waiting periods, and reductions or limitations and the terms under which the policies may be continued in force, please contact Standard Insurance Company at 800.522.0406. GP190-LTD/S399/CTA.1 GP190-LIFE/S399/CTA.3
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Provident Credit Union Again Partners with NBC Sports Bay Area to Sponsor the 2023 All-Star Teacher Award
Our endorsed credit union partner, Provident Credit Union, would like to express their appreciation to CTA members. Since 2010, Provident has partnered with NBC Sports Bay Area to sponsor the All-Star Teacher Award. Originally established in 2007 Provident Credit Union and NBC Sports Bay Area have awarded $260,000 to California schools.
The All-Star Teacher Award recognizes Northern and Central California teachers at the middle or high school levels. In addition to having $30,000 donated to his or her school, the winning teacher will be announced at a San Francisco Giants game during an NBC Sports broadcast.
Nominations for teachers who make a difference in their schools and communities are due by February 6, 2023. Nomination forms are available at NBCSportsBayArea.com/AST and at all Provident Community branches.
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