Shulman explains vote on 692A, paraprofessionals as backbone of classrooms
Council Member Lynn Schulman calls paraprofessionals the backbone of classrooms who support students with special needs. She says Intro 692A corrects wage disparities created by years of pattern bargaining and sends a clear message that the city cannot deliver quality education without investing in the people who make it possible. She votes aye on all.
Shulman.
Permission to explain my vote.
Permission granted.
Paraprofessionals are the backbone of our classroom, supporting students with special needs, assisting teachers, and keeping our schools safe and inclusive.
Yet for too long, their pay has not reflected the essential role they play.
Intro 692A is about respect, equity, and justice in correcting the wage disparities created by years of pattern bargaining that have left paraprofessionals behind.
This bill recognizes the value of your work and sends a clear message.
New York City cannot deliver quality education without investing in the people who make it possible.
I want to congratulate Carmen De La Rosa and Speaker Menon.
And by the way, this isn't the first piece of important legislation that has had new life in this session.
I am a proud co-sponsor of this legislation.
I was also the last go-round, and with that, I vote aye on all.