Urgent Protest in Cumberland as MSAD 51 Ed Techs Demand Contract

UPDATE: Education support professionals in Cumberland, Maine, are protesting for a new contract as they approach 250 days without one. At a tense MSAD 51 board meeting on March 5, 2026, dozens of education techs and secretaries dressed in red called for immediate action from board members to secure their rights.

The situation is urgent as negotiations have stalled since the last contract expired on June 30, 2025. Despite efforts to mediate the discussions, both sides remain at an impasse. Lulu Balzano-Brookes, a district ed tech for 24 years and lead negotiator for the education association, voiced the frustrations of many, stating, “Ed tech roles require skill, patience, dedication, certification and continuous professional learning, yet compensation and working conditions have not kept pace with the responsibilities we carry.”

The education association has been negotiating since April, but morale has plummeted as staff feel undervalued and disrespected. During the meeting, Kelley Keyte, who has dedicated 19 years to the Mabel I. Wilson School, expressed the emotional toll of the drawn-out negotiations. “Although I’m sure it’s not your intention, it makes us feel disrespected, unappreciated and undervalued,” she stated, sharing heartfelt notes from students who rely on their support.

The financial disparity is stark. Margaret McDevitt, a district ed tech for 23 years, revealed her hourly rate of $27.07 took over two decades to achieve, while neighboring Yarmouth pays $30.25 for a similar role with fewer years of service. This disparity has led to staff departures as employees seek better pay in nearby districts.

Students are also speaking out. Greely High School senior Camden Burke highlighted the critical role these professionals play, stating, “They’ve always been there for me.” He contrasted their pay to his own earnings of $22 an hour, emphasizing that even high school jobs offer better compensation.

School board Chair Leanne Candura acknowledged the situation, asserting that the board has made meaningful offers but is struggling to reach an agreement. “Your contributions are valued, and your commitment doesn’t go unnoticed,” she said, but many staff find those words hollow without a contract.

In a decisive move, the education association filed for fact-finding in December, which is set to begin on March 20 if a contract is not reached by then. This independent review will assess the claims of both sides and could be pivotal in breaking the deadlock.

As the negotiations continue, the emotional impact on staff and students is evident. Educators and support staff are urging the board to act swiftly to demonstrate their value and commitment to the community. The outcome of this protest could reshape the future of education support in Cumberland and reflect broader issues of labor rights in the education sector.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.