Somerville Teachers Association’s Community Meeting

Thu. Dec. 19, 2019 at 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Join the Somerville Teachers Association at a Community Meeting to discuss how to support Paraprofessionals fighting for fair salaries and job security!
This meeting is open to all members of the Somerville community!

What is a Paraprofessional?
A Paraprofessional is a caring educator who implements curriculum, supports students’ daily needs, and encourages social-emotional growth. Paraprofessionals work in conjunction with classroom teachers and other school staff to provide students with a high-quality and safe environment full of learning opportunities. They also often lead student learning groups, implement lessons alongside the classroom teacher, or work one-on-one with a student to fulfill IEP accommodations. All in all, a Paraprofessional is an essential educator in our classrooms and schools!

What are Paraprofessionals’ current working conditions?
Currently, a Paraprofessional in Somerville Public Schools makes between $20,680 and $25,502 per year. Because of this low annual salary, many Paraprofessionals have to work a second, or even a third job to make ends meet, especially with the rising costs of housing and healthcare. Additionally, all Paraprofessionals—even those who have taught in the district for over thirty years—have no job security; their employment ends on the last day of the school year, and they are at risk every June of not being rehired or having a job assignment for the upcoming fall.

What do Paraprofessionals need to succeed in educating your children?
A livable wage and job security have been paramount to the Paraprofessionals’ contract fight since last spring. They devote all of their energy to ensure all children have access to the curriculum and can learn to the best of their ability. This is difficult when they have to work other jobs before and after school, and on weekends. With a livable wage and job security, Paraprofessionals will be better equipped to work with students.

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