In a move to address concerns raised by lunch aides, the Lehighton Area School District’s board of directors is set to vote on a proposal to raise their hourly rate later this month.

Superintendent Dr. Christina Fish presented the case for the wage increase during Monday’s board workshop, highlighting the advocacy efforts of the lunch aides themselves.

According to Fish, the current hourly rate for the aides stands at $10.02. After conducting research on the rates offered in surrounding districts, she revealed compensation for equivalent positions ranged from $12.15 to $18.64 per hour.

The proposal, affecting approximately eight lunch aides across the district - four at the elementary center, two at the middle school, and two at the high school - aims to raise their hourly wage by $2.15. If approved, this adjustment would bring their compensation to $12.52 per hour.

Fish emphasized the significant responsibilities shouldered by lunch aides, who work about three and a half hours a day.

“Their duties include overseeing lunchrooms, supporting students, assisting with and, in the case of the high school, managing behaviors to ensure a safe and secure environment,” Fish said. “We feel that in order to remain competitive and to be more in line with our neighboring districts, we’re recommending the $2.15 cent raise per hour.”

School Board President Jeremy Glaush expressed support for the proposed increase, acknowledging the crucial role that lunch aides play on the front lines of school lunch operations.

“This sounds like a good plan,” Glaush said.

Director Barbara Bowes voiced her concern over the current rate, stating, “$10 an hour is really sad.”