Central Bucks Support Professionals To Rally For Fair Contract

DOYLESTOWN, PA — The Central Bucks Education Support Professionals Association (CBESPA) will stage a community support rally on Thursday, May 28, outside Central Bucks East High School prior to the scheduled Central Bucks School Board meeting at 7 p.m.

Union members said the 5 p.m. rally is aimed at bringing attention to ongoing contract negotiations between CBESPA and the Central Bucks School District with its current collective bargaining agreement set to expire on June 30. The union is seeking a fair agreement before the contract expires, union officials said.

Earlier this month, CBESPA members voted by a triple-digit margin to authorize a strike if necessary.

"The result sends a clear message to the Central Bucks School Board that support professionals expect action toward a fair agreement before the current contract expires on June 30," the union said in a statement.

Nearly 1,100 employees make up CBESPA, the largest support staff union in PSEA. CBESPA represents support professionals throughout the school district, the third-largest school district in Pennsylvania. Members serve students, staff, and families in roles including education assistants, personal care assistants, duty assistants, transportation assistants, job coaches, health services staff, administrative and office professionals, technology employees, security staff, and operations department employees including custodians, grounds, maintenance, skilled trades, and utilities. Together, they provide direct and indirect support to students and help keep schools operating safely and efficiently every day.

"Our members have made it clear that they expect a fair agreement that recognizes the value of the work they do," said CBESPA President Deneen Dry. "We remain committed to serving students and families while advocating for the respect our employees have earned."

Dry said community members, parents, staff, and supporters are invited to attend the rally and "stand with the employees who help keep Central Bucks schools running every day."