Support staff in Central Bucks School District are set to hold a strike authorization vote on May 2 as contract negotiations with the district continue ahead of a June deadline.
Members of the Central Bucks Educational Support Professionals Association, which represents roughly 1,100 to 1,200 employees including paraprofessionals, custodial staff, nurses and administrative support, are currently bargaining for a new agreement set to replace a contract expiring June 30.
Union leaders say a gap remains between the two sides, particularly around compensation.
“The district’s initial contract offer is not close to what our members consider acceptable,” CBESPA President Deneen Dry said, citing concerns over wages and district spending priorities.
A successful vote would authorize union leadership to call a strike if an agreement is not reached. At the same time, the union emphasized its goal remains to reach a deal through negotiations, though leaders said progress will require movement from the district.
"While both sides have participated in the bargaining process, there is still a gap between the parties. At a high level, our focus is on securing competitive wages, improved benefits, and working conditions that reflect the essential role our members play," said the union in a joint statement. "We hope the district recognizes and values the hard work of our support professionals and the bargaining process is an opportunity for the district to show their support."
Support staff have increasingly raised concerns about pay and staffing levels, issues that have surfaced in recent months at school board meetings. Union officials have said many employees earn below a living wage for Bucks County and that shortages have led to increased workloads, particularly in special education and custodial roles.
As negotiations continue, CBESPA members are planning a visible show of support at the April 23 school board meeting at Central Bucks High School West. Organizers expect a large turnout, with members wearing red in solidarity and joined by educators and others backing their efforts.
The upcoming vote and public presence mark an escalation in the ongoing contract discussions, as both sides face a narrowing window to reach an agreement before the current contract expires this summer.
"Our goal remains to reach a fair agreement through the bargaining process, but that will require movement. Our members are united, and they are ready to stand together to ensure their voices are heard," the union said.
