Pembroke School Committee Weighs Cutting Library Paraprofessionals Amid Contract Talks
Parents voice concerns over potential elimination of library staff positions, which could impact elementary school STREAM program
PEMBROKE, MA - June 17 — The Pembroke School Committee is considering eliminating library paraprofessional positions as part of ongoing contract negotiations, a move that could impact the elementary school STREAM program. The potential cuts were discussed during the committee's June 17 meeting.
Tara Jendro, a parent from the Bryantville neighborhood, expressed concern about the potential loss of library staff and its effect on her 6-year-old son. "He's six. He wanted to miss the balloon fight to come and fight for his education," Jendro said. "How can we move forward in a culture that needs more education in the library, that needs better access to books and computers?"
School Committee Chair Patrick Chilcott emphasized that no final decisions have been made regarding the library positions, as contract negotiations are still ongoing. "Should you be making changes to positions and in what have you or potential changes to positions? Which the superintendent did have to act on in order to preserve all of our rights regardless of what comes out," Chilcott said.
Carolyn, another parent, raised concerns about the communication of decisions made by the school committee and superintendent. "Perhaps when those type of major decisions impacting our children in the future, there could be a bit more clarity on it so whether people like it or not, it's information that everyone should have and shouldn't be hearing from another mom at baseball," she said.
In addition to the potential library cuts, Pembroke schools will be eliminating a 4th grade teaching position at North Pembroke Elementary due to enrollment changes, resulting in an increase of six students per class. This decision was made during budget discussions earlier in the year.
Superintendent Erin Obey explained that the district is looking at what's competitive in terms of salaries for administrators and staff. "I think when we're looking at salary grids for administrators just like with all of our units, we're looking at what's competitive, what's what's kind of around us, what people are paying," Obey said.
The school committee also recognized the accomplishments of Pembroke students, including the girls' tennis team winning the state championship and the boys' track team setting a new meet record. Additionally, two staff members, Sue Fitzpatrick and Mr. Hawes, were honored with the Plymouth County Education Association honors award for their dedication and service to the district.
As the Pembroke School Committee continues to navigate budget constraints and contract negotiations, parents and community members remain engaged in the process, advocating for the resources and programs they believe are essential for their children's education.