School committee raises after‑school teacher pay for 21st Century program

The Blackstone‑Millville Regional School Committee on Aug. 11 voted unanimously to raise the hourly rate for certified teachers in the 21st Century Learning Center at the JFK‑AFM complex from $35 to $45 for the 2022–23 school year.

The motion, read into the record by the chair, specified the increase would apply to the after‑school program and noted the program is paid fully by the 21st Century grant. Superintendent Jason DeFalco said the program's budget can absorb the higher rate: "It is a grant funded program that frankly their budget can hold that." (Jason DeFalco, Superintendent.)

Committee members raised concerns about setting a precedent. "My worry is that this then trickles down to everything else where no one signs up until you increase the hourly rate by $10," said Tammy Lemieux during discussion.

Dan Keith moved the motion; Charles ("Chuck") Dunton seconded. After discussion the committee voted in favor with all members saying "aye." The superintendent and staff emphasized the increase is funded from the three‑year, $173,000‑per‑year 21st Century grant, not the district's local budget.

The committee did not attach additional conditions to the increase. The item will be reflected in the program's budget documents for the current school year and overseen by program staff.

Formal action: motion to raise the certified teacher hourly rate for the 21st Century Learning Center at the JFK‑AFM complex from $35 to $45 per hour for the 2022–23 school year; moved by Dan Keith; seconded by Charles Dunton; outcome: approved unanimously.