Paraprofessionals urge Brockton School Committee for livable wage as deductions rise
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Summary
Paraprofessionals and community members told the Brockton School Committee a 2% raise does not offset rising deductions and health-care costs, with speakers warning that low pay risks losing staff and harming students.
Paraprofessionals, students and parents addressed the Brockton School Committee during the public comment period, urging higher pay and better protections for school staff.
Adrian Wish, a paraprofessional with nearly 30 years in the system, said she saw take-home pay drop after deductions rose and that a 2% raise recommended by the district would not cover increased health-insurance and other costs. "My health insurancewent from $216 to $229.18," she said, adding that those increased deductions "really hurt" and that the district needs to provide a livable wage.
Billy DeCosta, a resident who said he hopes to pursue a special-education degree, said many workers must hold two or more jobs under current pay levels, making it difficult to start families or pursue education. Donna Shearing, a paraprofessional and parent, described recent disciplinary attention after using sick leave for autoimmune illness and said the emotional toll compounded worries about pay and retention. She cited Massachusetts Teachers Association guidance showing a local livable-wage estimate near $60,000 and urged negotiators to consider the risk of a mass staff exodus.
Speakers asked the committee to prioritize pay in upcoming negotiations and noted that lower-paid paraprofessionals are especially vulnerable to elevated deductions and rising living costs. The committee acknowledged the comments and moved on to the superintendent's presentation.