The stories in this issue share a common thread: progress comes from organizing. From a major healthcare victory at the bargaining table to ongoing legislative efforts in Sacramento and a tribute to a member whose dedication helped move our union forward, these pages show what member power can achieve—and why we must keep carrying the fight forward.
After more than three years of tenacious organizing, the San Jose Evergreen Federation of Teachers, AFT Local 6157, won full implementation of the State Part-Time Faculty Health Insurance Program. This means, part-time faculty with assignments of at least 40% of a full-time load will be eligible for the same health insurance benefits as full-time faculty, and it will not cost the district a cent. This hard fought victory takes effect beginning Spring 2027.
Barry Del Buono, a longtime and beloved part-time Sociology instructor and active member of the San Jose Evergreen Federation of Teachers, passed away in December 2025, leaving an important and key legacy both for his union local and the greater San Jose Evergreen community.
Funding expansion for Part-Time Faculty Office Hours Program
CFT is pushing to expand ongoing funding for the states’ Part-Time Faculty Office Hours Program by an additional $90 million per year.
