The Nassau County School Board meeting on January 9, 2025, highlighted significant concerns from school support staff regarding misinformation about their salaries and working conditions. Stephanie, a custodian at Eulie Elementary School and vice president of the National Education Support Personnel Association, passionately addressed the board, refuting claims that custodians earn $47,000 annually. She emphasized that such statements are far from the truth, with many custodians struggling to make ends meet.

Stephanie expressed frustration over the spread of false information during public meetings, urging the community to recognize the realities faced by support staff. She shared her pride in her role, stating that custodians play a vital part in maintaining a safe and clean environment for students. Despite the challenges, she remains committed to her job and the ongoing negotiations for better pay and conditions.

Another speaker, Julio Herrera, spoke on behalf of his wife, a teacher at Southside Elementary, highlighting the lack of compensation for the extra work she undertakes, particularly in supporting non-English speaking families. He called attention to the need for recognition and reimbursement for the efforts of educational support professionals.

The meeting also touched on the importance of the millage tax, which was designed to support the salaries of school employees. Board members reiterated their commitment to ensuring that the funds are used effectively to retain staff and improve educational services. They acknowledged the hard work of support professionals, emphasizing that without them, the educational system would struggle to function.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by school support staff in Nassau County, as they seek fair compensation and recognition for their essential roles in the education system. The board's acknowledgment of these issues suggests a continued dialogue aimed at addressing the needs of these vital employees.