The word “solidarity” brings to mind struggles. And certainly California public education is struggling as it suffers the slings of massive budget cuts.

So right now, California school leaders need their own brand of solidarity. One manner in which ACSA is promoting this team spirit for school administrators is with an introductory offer for new members to encourage them to be a part of the bigger picture of school leadership in our state.

“These are challenging economic times for education, and we need to provide creative and affordable ways to allow new members to join, so that the organization can continue to grow,” said ACSA Assistant Executive Director Joseph Jones. “We create introductory offers that provided significant savings to new members as a trial, so they can experience for themselves how ACSA can impact their career and their profession.”

For new members, ACSA is offering a “stimulus package” of full regular membership for the flat rate of $540. In addition, student membership for aspiring administrators is a super-low $80. Since the dues are paid through authorized payroll deduction, the total is paid in installments each pay period.

There are very important reasons to join ACSA right now, in addition to having a strong voice in the Capitol when lawmakers debate budget cuts. ACSA’s staff and leadership always diligently serve the membership’s interests and needs. Whether the issue is changes to ESEA, algebra requirements, finance or curriculum, ACSA advocacy networks ensure the voices of school leaders are clearly heard in the deliberations.

Also, ACSA members receive a 50 percent discount on staff development. Attending just one program can net you every membership dollar back in savings. ACSA programs are high quality and well respected. Programs focus on specific job-alikes or are issue oriented.

Through committee and council participation and contact with ACSA staff, members have the opportunity to articulate how local and national policies will impact education.

ACSA also has a robust Web site, Webinar offerings and a thriving online community to put member benefits at the tip of your fingers.

ACSA members can stay on top of current issues by actively participating and networking with colleagues at home or across the state. More than 200 charters have been created within regions to address the local interests of members in one or more school districts. The charter structure gives ACSA its grassroots strength.

ACSA’s EdCal newspaper and Leadership magazine are award-winning publications that provide insight into best practices for leadership and instructional strategies, job vacancies and major developments in the education field.

Finally, investing in ACSA membership demonstrates your commitment to education and those who lead it.

“Now is the time to circle our wagons and protect our own,” Jones said. “By sticking together we can continue to be a strong advocate for California administrators and provide the tools and resources necessary to do the job and do it well.”

Your membership investment will yield a return. ACSA membership is an investment that gives back. So, please support the only statewide professional organization that serves and protects all administrators and the future of educational leaders.

For more information, call ACSA Member Services at (800) 608-ACSA.