Erika Meza, Teacher Trustee Candidate

Email: ms.erikameza@gmail.com
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Statement of Candidacy

MEMBER STATUS: CPS Teacher, 25 Years

My name is Erika Meza and I am a candidate for the Chicago Teachers’ Pension Fund Teacher Trustee position. I have extensive knowledge of financial investments, including the stock market, fixed income, alternative assets, and the effect of expense ratios on long-term portfolios. I acquired extensive knowledge through years of research, learning from experienced financial practitioners, and facilitating financial literacy workshops and seminars. I have a solid background in personal finance education, a passion for conducting research in investment options, and a firm commitment to advocating for sustainable retirement benefits. As a collaborative leader, I will work closely with my fellow trustees, bringing diverse perspectives and a fresh voice to the Board.  My experience as Chair of the Tier 2 Committee demonstrates my ability to successfully collaborate with all union members, fostering unity and working together toward shared goals. As a CTPF Teacher Trustee candidate, my goals are as follows:

  • Promote retirement benefit improvements for all members (Tier 1 and Tier 2 )
  • Grow our Fund and optimize our investment portfolio
  • Strengthen member communication and education
  • Empower school Pension Reps with financial knowledge to share with members.
  • Advocate for ethical investments

Membership Experience

  • CTPF Pension Representative for George Washington High School
  • CTU Chair of the Tier 2 Committee
  • CTU Associate Delegate/PPC/PPLC
  • CTU High School Steering Committee
  • LSC Teacher Representative

Leadership in Pension Advocacy, Education & Outreach Initiatives

CTU Chair of the Tier 2 Committee (2022 - Present)

Created and refined CTU contract articles with committee members that would enhance the benefits of Tier 2 members. Our committee proposals were approved by the CTU Executive Board and the House of Delegates for inclusion in the CTU/CPS bargaining process, and can be found in Articles 12 and 46-15 of our proposals.

  • Conducted in-depth analysis of pension policies and their impact on members
  • Coordinated advocacy and legislative outreach with State and IFT (Illinois Federation of Teachers) Representatives through in-person meetings and Zoom calls, and participated in the April 2024 Lobby Day in Springfield to discuss pension reform and advance our members' interests
  • Prepared informational fliers comparing Tier 1 and Tier 2 pension benefits for distribution at the House of Delegates meetings in support of member education
  • Led the development and review of a CTU resolution to address Tier 2 pension concerns
  • Contributed to the launch of a Tier 2 Facebook group aimed at educating members, disseminating critical information, and facilitating ongoing discussions among members regarding pension issues

Education

  • M.Ed. in School Leadership from Concordia University, Administrative Type 75 Certificate (2003)
  • B.A. in Secondary Education in History from the University of Illinois at Chicago, with a Bilingual and ESL Endorsement (2000)

Work Experience

  • George Washington High School: Social Science, English as a Second Language/Bilingual Lead Teacher, and Computer Science Teacher (including Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles) 2005 – Present
  • John F. Kennedy High School: Social Science Teacher (including Bilingual) 2000 - 2005

Disclaimer: CTPF is not responsible for the content of this material and has not verified any of the information.