Educator exposes harsh realities of low wages and struggles

During a recent board meeting, Katelyn Swinford, a behavior support paraprofessional at Naperville Central, delivered a poignant address highlighting the financial struggles faced by support staff in the education sector. Swinford emphasized the disparity between her salary and the state’s compensation for personal support workers, which stands at $30 per hour. She pointed out that despite her nearly ten years of experience, her pay is significantly lower, making it difficult for her and her husband to afford basic living expenses.

Swinford's testimony painted a vivid picture of the challenges faced by paraprofessionals, who often juggle multiple responsibilities for several students while managing behavior and collecting data. She expressed frustration over the lack of financial recognition for their essential contributions, stating, “Being poor is expensive,” and lamented the cycle of living paycheck to paycheck without the ability to save for emergencies.

The board acknowledged her comments, with a reminder that the superintendent would address public concerns raised during the meeting. Following the public comment segment, the board moved into its business agenda, discussing operational matters and ensuring that all members were prepared for the meeting to avoid surprises.

The meeting also included the approval of bills and claims totaling over $26,000, as well as the minutes from previous meetings. Board members expressed appreciation for the efficient communication and support from district staff, particularly in relation to financial inquiries.

As the meeting concluded, the board reiterated its commitment to effective communication and transparency, emphasizing the importance of addressing community concerns while managing district operations.