Being part of solution

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

It is notable that in tough economic times for the state and municipalities, Easthampton's four school unions have agreed to a one-year contract extension with no cost-of-living increase.

The action by the 240 teachers, custodians and other staff will save the district $200,000. It will allow Easthampton to avoid layoffs and, in conjunction with other special accounts money, will help bring back a teaching position and the jobs of a guidance counselor and several aides.

In the last several years, with reductions in state aid and rising costs, municipal leaders have called for help from school and municipal unions. Most such requests have been rejected; few have stepped up in as big a way as Easthampton's school personnel. They understand - as do employees in many workplaces right now - that they must be part of the financial solution.

Easthampton Education Association President Meredith Balise noted that the concession is not easy for members, who face the same increased costs and economic struggles as everyone else. The agreement asks their families to make do with less.

In a statement she wrote: "We all hope that this action of goodwill allows the schools to remain stable in providing necessary services to students."

With teacher layoffs being discussed around the region, Easthampton stands as a model for shared sacrifice. We join school committee members, the superintendent and the mayor in thanking them for stepping up on behalf of the students.