On a bright, beautiful day this week in North Smithfield, the spirit of solidarity and appreciation filled the air as the entire school community came together in a powerful show of support for the district's dedicated support staff. From classroom teachers to resource officers, everyone proudly wore stickers throughout the day, sending a clear message: the North Smithfield Support Staff Personnel are valued, essential, and deserving of a fair contract.
These hardworking individuals, including instructional assistants, custodial and maintenance personnel, and clerical staff, are the backbone of our schools. They ensure classrooms are ready for learning, that buildings are clean and safe, and that students and staff alike receive the vital daily support they need. Their commitment to the well-being and success of our school community cannot be overstated. Whether it's offering one-on-one guidance, keeping the facilities running smoothly, or managing the administrative flow, their work touches every corner of our district.
The support extended beyond the school day and into the evening at a packed school committee meeting where many members of the community spoke passionately in support of these critical workers. Their testimonies highlighted not only the professionalism and dedication of the support staff but also the impact they have on students’ lives.
As negotiations continue, it’s clear that North Smithfield stands behind this small but mighty group. For this community, they are mentors, caretakers, problem-solvers, and integral parts of the school family. They deserve a fair contract that reflects the true value of their contributions.
Update: The School Committee members vocalized strong support for the great work of our support staff and the very next negotiating meeting, brought forward a comprehensive proposal that turns these words of support into real appreciation: 10% raises to bring them up to the regional median and other improvements to recognize long-term employees.
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