Just two months after education paraprofessionals in the Branford public schools voted to organize into UE, they are fighting the unjust termination of four of their members. The four paras who have been dismissed have spotless work records and experience ranging from two years to more than 20. Three of the four have bachelor's degrees. One was a leader in the union organizing drive last spring.
The Board of Education claims the terminations are in response to anticipated budget cuts. But the board has also posted job openings for nine new positions in special education.
Schools Superintendent Hamlet Hernandez told the Branford Eagle that even though the paras have now joined the union, they do not yet have a contract and are therefore at-will employees who can be fired for any reason, presumably without regard for such principles as seniority and just cause. The union disagrees and has filed complaints with the Connecticut Board of Labor Relations.
UE Local 222 is asking members and friends of UE for a showing of support. Go to this link to read a local newspaper account of this dispute, and leave a comment in support of these UE members.