VOLUNTARY Equalized Pay-Simulating Equalizing Your Wages
Below I've attached everything we talked about at the workshop we held on July 12, 2021.
If you have any questions you may contact Alex LaBonte: labontea@springfieldpublicschools.com
You will find two payment calculators. One to use if elect a percentage of your pay and the other one to use if you elect a flat dollar amount. Remember to use your net pay not your gross pay. (Everyone has different deductions)
Equalized Pay Calculator by flat Dollar Amount
Equalized Pay Calculator by Percentage Amount
Send to : Paula Pepin at pepinp@springfieldpublicschools.com
Compensation Calendar 2021-2022
Local 4098 Member of the Month
You will notice that we are honoring our March - July Local 4098 Members of the Month a little early 🙂 The reason is because they are each donating a case of 2,200 disposable children’s face masks to the students at the school where they work and it's important to get the masks to our students now. The masks were produced by the Ford Motor Company and donated by the American Federation of Teachers.
Who are the new honorees? Check out below to find out 😊
Congratulations to all!
Local 4098 Member of the Month
March 2021
Betty Jack
Betty Jack has worked as a Para-educator in the Springfield Public Schools since October 1, 2008. Betty currently works at Alfred M Glickman Elementary School where she serves as the Building Representative. She is also a member of the Springfield Federation of Paraprofessionals Professional Development team.
Nancy Hand, fellow Para-educator at Glickman writes, “Betty Jack is a devoted Paraprofessional and has a heart for the students to thrive in their learning, as well as a deep concern for their well being. She is always willing and able to lend a helping hand when needed. I am blessed to work alongside of her and call her friend!”
Dr. Elizabeth Bienia, Principal at Glickman writes, "Betty Jack is a model paraprofessional who has garnered the respect of staff and students alike. She consistently goes above and beyond to assist students, even meeting with them on her lunch break to ensure they are successful. Betty communicates with families in a way that is real and honest; often providing a bridge between staff and our Spanish speaking families. She is the epitome of tough love and for that Glickman is ever grateful."
"Betty goes far above and beyond her duties as a paraprofessional. She is extremely dedicated and enjoys building relationships with students. When working in small groups she provides engaging and challenging lessons. She is eager to learn new technology and implement it with students. She signs up for many professional development opportunities to increase her knowledge which helps students to be successful. She initiates conversations with staff when looking for clarification or seeking resources to benefit students. She is extremely organized and willing to step in to communicate with parents to resolve issues a student may be having in the classroom." writes Brenda McDonald, one of Betty's co-operating educators.
Congratulations Betty and thank you for Making A Difference.
Local 4098 Member of the Month
April 2021
Sonia Watson
Sonia Watson has been a Para-educator at Freedman Elementary School since August 24, 2014. She currently serves as the Building Representative and is frequently a public speaker advocating for members of the local and para-educators in general.
Medina Ali, Principal, writes , “I cannot say enough about Ms. Sonya Watson. She exemplifies professionalism. She is a team player and not afraid of hard work and learning new skills. Ms. Watson adapts and adjusts to circumstances and does not complain. Above all, she loves the students. Ms. Watson is able to simultaneously be empathetic while holding students accountable to do their best every day. It is my fortune having Ms. Sonia Watson as a valued member of the Frank H. Freedman Elementary School Family.”
Jennifer Tassinari, co-operating teacher, writes "This is FANTASTIC! Ms. Watson is such a deserving candidate! Ms. Watson brings joy and excitement to class each day. Her love for the students and passion for teaching is unmatched. I am so lucky to work with such an inspiring and dedicated educator, and I appreciate her more than words can possibly express! "
Congratulations Sonia and thank you for Making A Difference!
Local 4098 Member of the Month
May 2021
Liza Ramos
Liza Ramos has been a para-educator at Washington Elementary School since August 24, 2020. She was nominated by the Building Representative, Danielle Kenniston.
Keith Asher, Principal at Washington writes, "I first interviewed Liza in March of 2020 and knew right away she would be a great fit at Washington. Due to the pandemic and the hiring freeze, Liza was unable to start until the September 2020. She emailed me every other week from April- August asking if the hiring freeze had been lifted and wanted to know when she could begin. I was so impressed with her commitment to Washington prior to ever entering the building.
Since arriving, she has not only worked with our kindergarten PLC students, but she has also helped a first-year pre-k teacher and a kindergarten teacher whose para retired at the end of last year.
Anytime we ask her to pivot to another role to help our students, she always does with a smile and says, “I am glad to help.”
I look forward to working with Liza in person as we approach unchartered territory for all educators."
"Liza Ramos comes to work smiling and happy everyday. Her enthusiasm is reflected in her work ethic and her commitment to the students. She has a passion for her work for going above and beyond. It has been a pleasure to have worked with her this school year!" writes cooperating teacher, Zina Gross.
Congratulations Liza and thank you for Making A Difference!
Local 4098 Member of the Month
June 2021
Anthony Rowan
Anthony Rowan has been a para-educator at Kensington International School since January 6, 2014.
Margaret Thompson, Principal, writes “So thrilled to recognize an amazing paraprofessional/outstanding person!”
Laurie Butt ,ELA ILS and Paula Macaulay, Math ILS write "We are writing on behalf of Anthony Rowan, a paraprofessional at Kensington International School. Tony is a staff member who is always going above and beyond his duties. Tony has a strong work ethic and is a perfect example of a team player. He consistently volunteers for various community and school activities such as delivering laptops to Springfield students who live outside the district, covering classrooms and lunch duties, and he has even dressed up as Thing 1 for Dr. Seuss’ birthday to emphasize the importance of reading!"
"Tony Rowan goes above and beyond the call of duty. If a child needs help or just someone to talk to Tony is always there, willing and able to lend an ear. He truly enjoys working with the children." writes Brenda Thomas.
Michelle Walker writes "Tony is a wonderful addition to our staff at Kensington. He is extremely dedicated to his work, and makes real world connections with students day in and day out. He is always willing to help teachers and students alike, and goes above and beyond in his daily work. Thank you, Tony, for all that you do!"
Congratulations Anthony and thank you for Making a Difference.
Local 4098 Member of the Month
July 2021
Ruth Moorhouse
Ruth Moorhouse has been a Para-educator at Mary Walsh Elementary School since October 10, 2006. She serves as the Building Representative and is our Unofficial Official photographer at every local event. (Hopefully, someday soon, we will be able to meet in-person again and use Ruth's services!)
Vinnie Regan, Principal at Mary Walsh writes, "Ruth Moorhouse is a leader focused on helping and supporting others no matter what. Ruth goes above and beyond for Walsh School in any classroom she supports just like she does for her community. During this pandemic year Ruth has been instrumental in supporting us all, especially me as Principal, and appreciate her positive, leadership, humanity and commitment to the kids and families of Walsh and our city."
Congratulations Ruth and thank you for Making a Difference!
Books for Kindergarten Joy
