New Bedford Paraprofessionals Secure Improved Contract with Raises, Bonuses, and Stipends
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new Bedford paraprofessionals are heading into the school year with increased financial security and benefits thanks to a newly ratified three-year contract negotiated by the New Bedford Federation of Paraprofessionals. The agreement, finalized in July, features significant salary increases, ratification and retention bonuses, and stipends for those working with students with high needs.
Recognizing the Vital Role of Paraeducators
The contract acknowledges the crucial contributions of paraeducators within New Bedford’s classrooms. Nancy Furtado, a paraeducator with 25 years of experience in the city, emphasized the importance of the agreement, stating, “This contract recognizes the important role paraeducators play in classrooms across New Bedford.” She credited strong leadership and the support of the Superintendent for achieving these gains.
key Provisions of the New Contract
The new contract includes several key improvements for New Bedford paraprofessionals:
Salary Increases: members will recieve salary increases ranging from 13.5% to 30.5% over the three-year duration of the contract.
Ratification & Retention Bonuses: Bonuses will be awarded based on length of employment, with ratification bonuses distributed promptly and retention bonuses planned for 2026 and 2027.
stipends for High-Needs Support: Paraeducators working with students requiring intensive support, including those with ABA (Applied behavior Analysis) designations and those who are deaf or hard of hearing, will receive additional stipends.
Paid Election Day: Paraprofessionals will receive pay for Election Day as a professional day when schools are closed.
* Versatility with Personal Days: The contract allows for personal days to be taken in half-day increments, providing greater flexibility for employees.
Sheldon Smith,a paraeducator with 27 years of service in New Bedford Public Schools,highlighted the benefits of the timely contract ratification. “The fact that we had a ratified contract before our previous one expired was a win in and of itself,” he saeid. “On top of a strong compensation structure, this contract provides paras with some much-needed flexibility and security.”
Leadership Transition and Future Outlook
The contract’s success is attributed to the efforts of outgoing president Jillian Zangao and incoming President Michelle Willis. This agreement represents a significant achievement for the New Bedford Federation of Paraprofessionals and sets a positive tone for the upcoming school year.
This contract demonstrates a commitment to valuing the essential work of paraeducators and ensuring they have the resources and support needed to effectively serve New Bedford’s students.