As NESPA incoming Co-President Peggy Sturm and outgoing Co-President Marge Mitchell spoke, people in the room stood up with signs reading, "RESPECT and VALUE ALL NORTHSHORE STAFF."
Peggy and Marge updated the Board and Supt. Francois on the pay, benefit, job security, and tech (inadequate computers) issues facing us. Marge told them, "If we don't have an agreement by Monday, August 30, no one can say that you inherited these disparities. They will be yours. You will own them. And we are not going away. We're in this for the long haul. We will do what it takes to be VALUED an RESPECTED like other District employees."
Peggy stated to the Board members and Superintendent, "How is it that every custodian, every bus driver, and nearly every office staff person, teacher, and administrator gets enough hours for benefits...but it "costs too much" to provide benefits to about 40 more NESPA members? If this isn't second class treatment, what is it?"
Parent Heather Tucker, whose son Sean has been with One-on-One Special Education Paraeducator Dawn Schmidt from Hollywood Hill Elementary through Woodinville High School, also spoke to the Board about the need for Northshore to respect the work of Special Education Paraeducators.
NESPA members will continue to pack specified Board meetings and other events to win the RESPECT we deserve! Don't miss the next one!
