This letter is a response to a previous Letter to the Editor, “Fair contracts sought by Unit C“

Thank you to the Unit C Contract Action Team for shedding light on the need for fair wages for our extraordinary Unit C staff. As parents of former students who benefitted from Unit C staff support, we know that they can be the difference between a child learning or not learning, feeling safe or being vulnerable, and experiencing joy or being lost in despair. The fact that these indispensable members of our school community are not being adequately paid is heartbreaking. If we truly value inclusion, we must invest in those who make it possible.

We understand that Lexington Public Schools (LPS) is under a budget freeze. We know these are uncertain times and that resources are short. We also understand that there is a finite amount of money in the LPS budget and cuts will need to be made elsewhere. Budgets reflect priorities. Budgets clarify our values. If we are serious about equity, belonging and student success, we must prioritize the people who make those values a reality every day.

Investing in fair compensation for Unit C staff is not only a moral imperative, but also a fiscally responsible decision. When students lack adequate support, they are at risk of regression, leading to the need for costly remediation and expensive out-of-district placements, with costs varying depending on the services required. By ensuring that Unit C staff are adequately compensated, we can maintain consistent quality support for our students and reduce future expenses.

The role of these educators benefits every student, creating classrooms characterized by empathy, respect and understanding. Empathy is what binds us together, especially in challenging times. Ensuring fair wages for Unit C staff is an affirmation of our collective empathy, directly benefiting all students by nurturing an environment of inclusivity and compassion.

Fair wages for Unit C staff is about more than contracts—it’s about upholding our district’s values. These educators are essential to inclusive learning, benefiting all students, and underpaying them undermines our commitment to equity and belonging. We must take action—not just for these professionals, but for our children and the integrity of our schools.

Sincerely,

Bronte Abraham
Robin Abrams
Laura Connoly
Mark Goldstein
Pam Goldstein
Carol Millard
Mona Roy
Subhash Roy
Anna Wijatik

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2 Comments

  1. Agree 1000%! The word ‘indispensable’ is absolutely correct. These professionals are the key to the success of so many students. Many have been with the district for years, and retaining and treating fairly these experienced people who care so much about the students they work with is essential.

  2. When citizens discuss the budget, we often distinguish between student-facing staff and others.

    Looking at the Lexington Education Association (LEA) contracts (lexington.massteacher.org/contracts), student-facing staff is divided into two groups: Unit-A (Teachers and Educators) and Unit-C (Instructional Assistants, Specialized Instructional Assistants, and Student Support Instructors).

    As a parent, I view both Unit-A and Unit-C as the core group of teachers, and I care deeply about supporting them.

    So, why does LEA treat them differently?

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