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Committee approves MOU setting pay for licensed practical nurse to attract candidates
Summary
The committee approved a memorandum with Unit C to create an LPN position with a starting hourly rate of $31 and superintendent authority to negotiate up to $33.50 for candidates with relevant experience, intended to make district pay competitive with local employers.
The Berkshire Hills Regional School Committee approved a memorandum of understanding with Unit C that establishes compensation terms for a licensed practical nurse (LPN) position the district created to meet student medical needs.
Rob explained the change: because the Unit C contract language did not produce a competitive hourly rate compared with local employers (such as elder-care providers), the memorandum strikes and replaces Article 6.13 to set the LPN’s starting rate at $31 per hour and gives the superintendent the authority to negotiate a higher rate — up to $33.50 per hour — for candidates who bring applicable LPN experience.
Rob said the decision responds to the district’s need to provide licensed nursing services so students with health needs can access the curriculum and that using the memorandum avoids complex contract interpretation. A motion to approve the memorandum was made, seconded and recorded by the chair as passing unanimously.
The memorandum was described as creating a regular, district-employed LPN role rather than continuing reliance on contracted LPN services.
