Linda Ortega, president of the Mount Diablo Educators Association (MDEA), used the Oct. 22 board meeting’s communications period to announce a community drive for socks, gloves and umbrellas and to urge progress in contract negotiations with district management.

Ortega said MDEA members are collecting donations to help students stay warm as weather turns and asked community members to drop items at the Willow Creek Center, Room A1. She said past donations have helped students walking to and from school and encouraged people to donate.

On negotiations, Ortega said she hopes “both sides can come to a fair agreement soon” and that the association’s goal is “to work collaboratively with the district management on how to solve problems before they directly impact our students.” She added, “Open communication and trust is key.” The MDEA president said she hopes district leadership will “work to rebuild trust with its educators through open and respectful communication.”

Superintendent Dr. Clark referenced the remarks later in his report and said he was “willing to collaborate and listen” as the district focuses on student outcomes and instructional work.

Logistics: MDEA donation drop‑off at the Willow Creek Center, Room A1; organizers will accept socks, gloves and umbrellas. Ortega invited community members to contact MDEA through association channels for more information.

Source: Remarks by Linda Ortega, MDEA president, Oct. 22, 2025 board meeting.