We are proud to announce that at tonight’s Education Support Professionals bargaining meeting, OCEA proposed an 8.7% Cost of Living Adjustment for all support personnel!
Tonight, November 17th, was the first night that the ESP bargaining team was scheduled to come to the table since the launch of the teacher’s campaign. We were thrilled to be able to use this first bargaining opportunity to stand united in our fight for ALL educators to receive a livable wage. Throughout the last month we have repeatedly heard students, parents, educators, and community members say how much they value and appreciate their schools and staff. We know that this includes all of the adults involved in making sure every child has a safe, happy, and productive environment from the moment they step foot on campus.
Yet, just like our regular classroom teachers, the paraprofessionals, nurses, Extended Day educators, Voluntary PreKindergarten educators, IT technicians, and many other essential personnel are NOT being paid a professional salary.
This is not acceptable!
If we truly want to have the best learning environment for our children, we need all adults to be at their best each day. It is far easier for these professionals to be at their best when they know they can put food on the table and gas in their cars. However, most ESPs in Osceola County make less than $23,000 per year. According to the United States Census Bureau, the poverty line for a four person household is $27,740. Therefore, many of our full-time educators in Osceola County are living below the poverty line.
We can change this.
Our petition has now been updated to include all ESP and Instructional personnel in Osceola County. All communication and energy going forward will be focused on ensuring our district uses its vast $1.8 billion budget fairly. We are looking forward to speaking with the school board at Tuesday’s 10:30 AM school board meeting. Join us at 817 Bill Beck Blvd, Kissimmee, to share your stories and your voice!
When we work as one, there is nothing that can stop us!
