We are stunned and outraged that Uxbridge Superintendent Kevin Carney would direct principals to terminate the employment of nine paraprofessionals in the upcoming school year. These skilled educators, with years of experience and service to the district, have been informed they will not be employed in the 2016-2017 school year. While we recognize that a reduction-in-force is sometimes necessary, there are contractual provisions that must be followed. Superintendent Carney has negated and ignored the RIF and related provisions.

It is unacceptable for the superintendent to toss aside these employees who have ably served the students of Uxbridge and given years of service and dedication as well as pursued training and professional development. For the superintendent, and the Uxbridge School Committee, to blatantly ignore contractual provisions and bargain in bad faith, threatens the respect and trust of all educators and the greater community of the Uxbridge Public Schools.

We, the undersigned, urge the superintendent to choose the only responsible course of action and, if necessary, follow the reduction-in-force provision outlined in the Uxbridge paraprofessionals' collective bargaining agreement.