During a recent government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the inequitable salaries for employees involved in the Extended School Year (ESY) programs mandated by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Advocates highlighted the critical need for equitable pay across all roles within the program, emphasizing that fair compensation is essential for hiring and retaining skilled professionals who serve some of the most vulnerable students in Brookline.

The discussion pointed to a troubling trend where, despite previous commitments to address salary disparities, the Human Resources department has reverted to a pre-2019 pay structure for the upcoming ESY 2024. This has resulted in some coordinators and specialists earning less than they did in previous years, with no additional compensation for the extensive planning and administrative work required for the program.

Particularly alarming was the comparison of salaries between ESY coordinators and those involved in supplemental programs like the STAR Academy, where coordinators reportedly earn significantly more for shorter commitments. For instance, the director of the STAR Academy is set to earn $18,000 for just three weeks of work, while ESY coordinators are compensated only $7,500 for six weeks of intensive programming.

The advocates underscored the emotional toll this pay inequity takes on dedicated staff, many of whom were among the first to return to in-person education during the COVID-19 pandemic. They expressed concern that the current compensation structure sends a disheartening message about the value placed on these essential employees and their roles in supporting students with special needs.

The meeting concluded with a call for immediate action to ensure equitable remuneration for all ESY employees, stressing that without appropriate compensation, the quality of education and support for students requiring ESY services could be severely compromised. The advocates urged the administration to recognize the dedication of these professionals and to commit to fair pay practices moving forward.