School district raises pay rates amid increased demand for substitute teachers and aides

The Tewksbury Public Schools School Committee meeting on April 30, 2025, highlighted a significant trend in the district's staffing costs, particularly regarding substitute aides. Committee members noted that the expenses for daily substitute aides have risen unexpectedly, prompting discussions about the underlying causes.

One key factor identified was an increased demand for substitute aides, who are now more frequently stepping into teaching roles. This shift has led to higher costs, as the district has been paying competitive rates to attract and retain substitutes. "We raised that rate for our ESPs to substitute, and we have a very competitive rate for subs as well," a committee member explained, emphasizing the district's commitment to maintaining quality staffing.

Despite the higher costs, the committee viewed this trend positively, noting that more aides are willing to take on additional responsibilities. "It's a better problem than we’ve had in the past," one member remarked, reflecting on the district's improved ability to fill substitute roles compared to previous years when finding substitutes was a challenge.

The discussion underscored the cyclical nature of staffing needs throughout the school year, with the committee acknowledging that while they have had to limit new applications for substitutes at times, the overall situation is an encouraging sign of a responsive and engaged workforce. As the district continues to adapt to these changes, the focus remains on ensuring that students receive the support they need in the classroom.