Easton paraprofessionals demand living wages amid budget discussions at school committee meeting

The Easton School Committee meeting on December 19, 2024, highlighted pressing concerns regarding the compensation of paraprofessionals, a topic that resonated deeply with community members. During the public comment session, several speakers, including representatives from the Easton Educator Association, passionately advocated for better wages for paraprofessionals, emphasizing their critical role in supporting students, particularly those with special needs.

Zachary Dyer, speaking on behalf of the Easton Educator Association, criticized the school committee's proposal to allocate a one-time stipend from a recently approved $100,000 budget increase for paraprofessional wages. He argued that such temporary measures fail to address the ongoing financial challenges faced by these essential staff members. Dyer pointed out that while the town has historically utilized one-time funds for various operational costs, the same approach should apply to supporting paraprofessionals, who play a vital role in the educational system.

Lois Agopian, a paraprofessional at Oliver Ames High School, shared her perspective on the disparity between the wages of paraprofessionals and other jobs in the community. She highlighted that the starting pay of $18.85 per hour is insufficient given the responsibilities and impact paraprofessionals have on students' lives. Agopian urged the committee to recognize the value of their work and to find the necessary funds to provide fair compensation.

Other speakers echoed these sentiments, with one paraprofessional sharing her personal journey and the challenges of making ends meet on a limited salary. They collectively called for a reevaluation of the pay structure, arguing that the current wages do not reflect the importance of their roles in fostering student success and well-being.

The meeting underscored a growing urgency among educators and community members to address the compensation issues facing paraprofessionals. As discussions continue, the school committee faces the challenge of balancing budgetary constraints with the need to ensure fair wages for all staff, particularly those who directly influence the educational experience of Easton's students. The voices of the community are clear: action is needed to support those who dedicate their careers to nurturing the next generation.