Education Techs in Cumberland Demand Contract After 250 Days

UPDATE: Education support professionals in Cumberland, Maine, are escalating their demands for a new contract after working without one for 250 days. During a heated MSAD 51 board meeting on March 5, 2026, dozens of educators donned red to protest the ongoing negotiations, urging the board to prioritize their compensation and working conditions.

Frustration has reached a boiling point as negotiations, which began in April, have stalled despite mediation efforts. The previous contract expired on June 30, leading to significant dissatisfaction among education techs and secretaries who claim their roles are undervalued.

“Ed tech roles require skill, patience, dedication, certification, and continuous professional learning, yet compensation has not reflected our responsibilities,” said Lulu Balzano-Brookes, a lead negotiator for the MSAD 51 Education Association and a district ed tech for 24 years.

The urgency of the situation is compounded by the departure of staff members seeking better pay in neighboring districts. “I would ask that we really step up and change this so we don’t lose these people,” urged Pete Gillingham, an eighth-grade social studies teacher.

Students are also voicing their concerns. Camden Burke, a senior at Greely High School, highlighted the critical role of education support professionals in shaping student experiences. “They’ve always been there for me,” he stated, contrasting their pay with his own earnings of up to $50 an hour at part-time jobs.

The board’s response, delivered by Chair Leanne Candura, acknowledged the educators’ contributions but emphasized the challenges in reaching a fair agreement. “Your contributions are valued, and your commitment doesn’t go unnoticed,” she stated, though many felt these words lacked substance without a contract in place.

Compounding the tension, the education association filed for fact-finding in December, which will commence on March 20 unless an agreement is reached. “Unfortunately, we haven’t been able to agree on those terms yet,” Candura admitted, revealing the board’s commitment to continuing negotiations in good faith.

As the situation develops, the emotional toll on educators and their impact on students remains significant. Many have shared stories of appreciation from students, emphasizing their essential role in the educational landscape. “It makes us feel disrespected and undervalued,” said Kelley Keyte, an ed tech with 19 years in the district.

With March 20 approaching, the pressure mounts for both the board and the education association. Will they reach a resolution, or will the situation escalate further? The eyes of the community—and the state—are watching closely as this critical negotiation unfolds.