The most important factor in student success is the presence of quality educators, yet year after year, it gets harder to be an educator in this state. As state policies and budget decisions make it more difficult for educators to meet the needs of our students, our County Commission is the last line of defense in protecting Durham's children from the state's attack on public schools.

In June of 2015, the Durham Board of County Commissioners had the opportunity to demonstrate its support for Durham's educators by supporting a 3% increase in the pay of the Classified Staff who make our schools run everyday. Without these essential personnel, our students can't: get to and from school; eat; learn in a safe and clean environment; receive invaluable instructional support; or have well-run and coordinated schools that meet their needs. The County Board denied the Durham School Board's request, leaving Classified Staff without a raise for at least the last 6 years. This amounts to an annual pay cut, and it sends the message that our students don't deserve the education we all know they do. We must stand together for our students.

By signing this petition, you are indicating that you support a 3% raise for Classified Staff and demand that the County take action in support of our students.

For more information, or to return signed petitions, please contact Bryan Proffitt at dae4ourstudents@gmail.com or (919) 210-9256.