School Bus Workers for Kids with Special Needs Gain Improved Working Conditions

(MIDDLEBOROUGH, Mass.) – Teamster school bus drivers and monitors with Middleborough Public Schools have overwhelmingly ratified a three-year agreement.

The drivers and monitors, members of Teamsters Local 653 in South Easton, voted 22-1 in favor of the agreement. There are 26 workers in the bargaining unit who transport students with special needs.

The contract includes wage increases, snow and vacation days, and strong grievance language, as well as bidding and dispatch rights for the first time.

The workers previously belonged to an independent association, but joined Local 653 seeking stronger representation.

“This was a total team effort, including Middleborough school bus drivers and monitors, Local 653 Secretary-Treasurer Brian McElhinney and Eastern Region Vice President Sean O’Brien,” said Ed MacPherson, Local 653 Vice President. “We’re very pleased with this contract.”

“The Middleborough drivers and monitors are excited to be a part of Teamsters Local 653. We have heard many positive things and we’re looking forward to the future,” said Renee True, a shop steward.

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Visit www.teamster.org for more information. Follow us on Twitter @Teamsters and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/teamsters.