Faculty Union Criticizes County Plan For Middlesex College Edison

EDISON, NJ — Officials recently announced various improvement plans for Middlesex College in Edison as part of Middlesex County’s Destination 2040 Strategic Plan.

This move has drawn strong reactions from the American Federation of Teachers New Jersey and full-time faculty who are currently in their third academic year without a contract.

The County’s Community, Innovation, and Opportunity (CIO) plan for the college include an open-air multipurpose community venue for concerts and events; a new community park; an athletic complex featuring 16 tennis courts and a cricket field; expansion of exterior spaces and more. More: Cricket Field, Multipurpose Venue Coming To Edison's Middlesex College

“The first step to student success? Settle the faculty contract,” said Pat Payne, President, Local 1940 AFT

“The purpose of a college campus is not to serve as an entertainment venue for the public. The purpose is to teach and prepare students for transfer to a four-year school and a career.”

Payne said the state’s “big plan” was announced without discussion or consultation from the campus community. “Not one faculty member or student was invited, nor has the college made any official statement about the plans for building on the campus,” Payne said.

Middlesex College needs classroom building renovations, reliable Wi-Fi access and updates in computer labs, according to Payne.

AFT members said that all recent efforts to for negotiations with the administration, including a letter campaign targeting County Commissioner Director Ronald Rios and his colleagues; an Oct. 20 rally near the main entrance to the campus — have been ignored.

AFTNJ President Donna M. Chiera said she was concerned that leadership was investing in buildings instead of education.

Students have concerns about technology that is outdated or just doesn’t work. Management claims the college is experiencing financial issues because of the decrease in enrollment and other factors,” Chiera said. “In light of that claim, I question if the taxpayer funds being allocated for the CIO plan would be better spent investing in teaching and learning.”

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