Education Techs Protest at MSAD 51 for Urgent Contract Agreement

BREAKING: Education support professionals in the Maine School Administrative District 51 (MSAD 51) staged a passionate protest on March 5, 2026, demanding a new contract after being without one for nearly 250 days. The gathering took place during a board meeting at Greely High School in Cumberland, where dozens of educators and supporters donned red shirts to symbolize their unity and urgency.

The protest comes amid ongoing failed negotiations that began in April 2025, following the expiration of their previous contract on June 30, 2025. Despite attempts to mediate in the fall, both sides have been unable to reach an agreement that addresses the educators’ needs.

Lulu Balzano-Brookes, a district education technician with 24 years of experience, expressed frustration at the lack of progress. “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,” she stated during the meeting.

The urgent call for a new contract was echoed by many at the meeting, including Kelley Keyte, a veteran ed tech who shared heartfelt notes of appreciation from students. Keyte remarked, “Although I’m sure it’s not your intention, it makes us feel disrespected, unappreciated, and undervalued.”

Teachers also voiced concerns about staff retention, noting that many educators have left MSAD 51 for better pay in neighboring districts. Pete Gillingham, an eighth-grade social studies teacher, urged the board to act swiftly to retain valuable personnel amidst declining morale.

High school senior Camden Burke highlighted the crucial role education support professionals play in students’ lives, stating, “They’ve always been there for me.” Burke compared his own earnings of $22 an hour in various jobs to the pay of experienced education support professionals, many of whom earn around $27.07 an hour after years of service.

Amidst these rising tensions, Leanne Candura, school board chair, reassured attendees of the board’s commitment to a fair resolution. “Your contributions are valued, and your commitment doesn’t go unnoticed,” she stated, although acknowledging that these assurances feel hollow without a contract.

With the negotiation deadlock persisting, the education association has filed for fact-finding, scheduled to commence on March 20, 2026, unless an agreement is reached before then. The independent organization will assess the claims of both parties in hopes of resolving the ongoing dispute.

As the situation develops, MSAD 51 community members continue to rally support for their education support professionals, emphasizing their vital role in nurturing students. The call for equitable compensation and working conditions remains urgent, and stakeholders are watching closely for updates.

Stay tuned for more information as this story unfolds.