A Petition to Invest in Our Libraries, Invest in Our Students
CUSD Board of Trustees
Our school libraries are more than just collections of books; they are dynamic learning environments essential for student success. Research overwhelmingly demonstrates a direct link between well-supported school libraries and improved reading and math scores, higher graduation rates, and overall academic achievement.
At the heart of these vital spaces are our dedicated school library professionals. They are the backbone of library services, expertly guiding students and teachers in accessing crucial resources, fostering a love of reading, and equipping students with essential literacy and research skills that benefit them across all subjects.
When our libraries are well-staffed, they become powerful tools for equity, providing crucial support for all students, especially those most vulnerable, and helping to close achievement gaps. Furthermore, the encouragement of free-choice reading, facilitated by library resources and the expertise of library staff, cultivates a lifelong love of learning – a cornerstone of future success.
Alarmingly, the School Board is currently refusing to approve a modest and impartial panel-recommended 5% wage increase for our library services staff. This decision disregards the expert opinion recognizing school library staff's increased responsibilities and sends a clear message that their vital contributions are undervalued. Underbudgeting and underpaying these crucial professionals directly diminishes the quality of our library services, thereby harming our students' learning experience and future potential.
Sponsored by
To:
CUSD Board of Trustees
From:
[Your Name]
As classified staff, teachers, parents and community members, we stand united in recognizing the indispensable role our school library staff play in our schools. Their dedication directly translates to the success of our students. Failing to invest in them is failing to invest in our children's future. It is time for the CUSD Board of Trustees to acknowledge their value and ensure our libraries remain thriving centers of learning.
Therefore, we, the undersigned, urge the CUSD Board of Trustees to immediately approve the recommended 5% wage increase for CUSD Library Services Staff.
By signing this petition, we are collectively asking the Board of Trustees to:
- Recognize the critical role of school library staff in fostering student success, as supported by extensive research.
- Acknowledge the increased responsibilities of school library staff, as affirmed by an impartial review panel.
- Immediately approve and implement the recommended 5% wage increase for school library staff to ensure fair compensation and retain these vital professionals.
- Prioritize the well-being and adequate staffing of our school libraries as a fundamental investment in the academic future of all students.
- Demonstrate a commitment to equity by supporting the library staff who play a crucial role in bridging achievement gaps.
Our children deserve thriving libraries, and thriving libraries require fairly compensated and dedicated school library staff. We urge you to act now.