In response to the COVID-19 public health crisis, the last few weeks have been a trying time for the Putnam School district as paraprofessionals were out of work and the Board of Education struggled to reconcile unanticipated expenses and potential future budgetary constraints.

In anticipation of federal stimulus money to help off-set expenses associated with COVID-19, the district and leaders of Local 1303-87, AFSCME Council 4 engaged in talks to bring these dedicated professionals back to work.

Leaders of the paraprofessional union and their parent union, Council 4 AFSCME, and the Putnam Board of Education reached an agreement that is positive for all parties. Effective April 2, 2020, all Putnam paraprofessionals will return to their duties and be integrated into Putnam’s district-wide distancing learning program.

“We are pleased to know our district understands we can serve as an asset and have both students and families feel supported during this challenging time,” said Martha Sabourin, President of Local 1303-87 and Putnam High School paraprofessional.

Superintendent Daniel Sullivan added, “I’m happy to have everyone back to work. Our paraprofessionals play an important role in educating our students, whether at school or home. We know this agreement will benefit us all during this unprecedented time and support the overall well-being of our school community.”