Blue Valley paraprofessionals received bad news in a recent “Dear colleague” letter”
I am writing to share an important change to your Blue Valley benefits. Beginning Jan. 1, 2027, classified staff and administrators who are regularly scheduled to work fewer than 30 hours per week will no longer be eligible for district benefits.
With that statement from USD 229, paraprofessionals in the district find themselves again in the crosshairs of budget-cutters as the district seeks to close an estimated $10 million budget gap.
Earlier this year, the district announced work hours had been reduced and paid holidays eliminated for those in-classroom aides, classified as paraprofessionals, and who work fewer than 30 hours per week, making around $20 per hour.
A district spokesperson told KSHB 41:
“We recognize this is a significant change for employees and their families. This was not a decision made lightly. We are sharing this information now so staff have time to understand the change and consider their options for 2027.”
The Affordable Care Act requires employers to provide health coverage to employees working over 30 hours per week.
Other options to save money at Blue Valley
As we wrote earlier this year, Blue Valley has other options to close its $10 million budget gap.
The district has experienced a 17% enrollment increase since 2005, but added 54% more managers and other non-teaching staff is 25% higher.
If both categories increased at the same rate as enrollment, Blue Valley would have 72 fewer managers and other non-teaching staff would be 74 lower. Assuming average pay and benefits savings of $125,000 for managers and $75,000 for other employees, the district would save $14.5 million by right-sizing non-teaching staff.
A complete roster for Blue Valley, Olathe, and Shawnee Mission follows.
Reporter’s Note: We reached out to the Kansas chapter of the National Education Association for comment on Blue Valley’s action, which may result in fewer dues-paying members of the teacher’s union. The KNEA did not respond.
