What it means: The CBA is a cooperative agreement at SAU 21. As such, the CBA warrant article needs to pass in all five (5) school districts within SAU 21 – in order for it to take effect in any one district. If one school district CBA warrant article fails, they all fail.
Those in favor say: A speaker stated that this article was unanimously supported by all members of the School Board, and discussed the importance of the educational associates. He talked about the need for this article to pass in order to retain the best educational associates and to be able to hire high-quality new associates. He discussed the high turnover rate and stated that we currently provide uncompetitive compensation and benefits to these important employees.
If the CBA fails, paraprofessionals do not receive pay increases, steps, or health insurance offerings. Hampton’s paraprofessionals are currently paid $15 – $19 per hour and are only eligible for single-person health insurance. This is not competitive with surrounding school districts, or businesses and retailers. Hampton loses paraprofessionals at a 40% turnover rate.
SAU 21 paraprofessionals are in the classroom every day working with teachers and supporting students to allow for individualized and personalized instruction. They assist with hands-on learning opportunities and educational experiences. These professionals work in both general education and special education, providing services for students as required by their IEPs.
Those opposed say: No one spoke against this Article at Deliberative Session.
Fiscal Impact: A Hampton home valued at $400,000 would bear an increased tax cost of $ 2.76 in 2024 if SAU 21 Article 2 passes, and for each year of the contract, the cost is below $3.00. Take your property valuation divided by 1000 and multiplied by .007 to get your cost.
Note: These costs for taxpayers are calculated at 47.1% of the appropriations, which is Hampton’s share.