Local 1733 Offers Assistance in Consolidation Process

 AFSCME, Local 1733 members employed at area schools held a press conference at their Union Headquarters today voicing their support for the Transition Planning Commission and offering assistance in carrying out the consolidation of the school districts of the City of Memphis and Shelby County. Today the members plan to present a white paper and make an official statement on those points to the Shelby County School Board.

The white paper—which highlights best practices and potential obstacles school districts face during consolidations—calls for a comprehensive implementation process that is comprised of all parties, including school employees.

Emily Payne, a food service worker at Coleman Elementary School, was among those who gathered for the press event. “We are ready to do whatever is necessary to make sure that the merger is successful,” Payne stated. “The futures of our children and our community are at stake.”

The school employees will attend tonight's school board meeting at 5:30pm to present their findings.