Charles County School Union Raises Instructional Assistant Workload, Lunch Break Concerns

LA PLATA, Md. — Concerns about instructional assistants being asked to take on teaching responsibilities without planning time and not consistently receiving lunch breaks were raised Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, during a presentation to the Charles County Board of Education by leadership of American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 2981.

Stephanie Lawson, vice president of AFSCME Local 2981, told board members that union leadership recently met with district administration through the Labor Management Committee to address issues brought forward by support staff across multiple schools and departments.

“During that meeting, concerns were discussed regarding instructional assistants being asked to teach classes and grade papers without appropriate planning time, not consistently receiving lunch breaks and delays in responses to behavioral referrals involving students with special needs,” Lawson said.

Lawson said the concerns were heard by district leadership and that the union was informed that steps would be put in place to provide additional support moving forward. She said the union’s focus remains on ensuring that job expectations align with assigned roles and that staff receive adequate time and support to perform their duties effectively.

“Our goal is to continue advocating for clear expectations, proper support and a healthier work environment for all staff,” she said.

Union Encourages Engagement Amid State Budget Discussions

Lawson also encouraged union engagement as the state begins its Fiscal Year 2027 budget process. She noted that Department of Budget and Management personnel hearings are scheduled for March 3 in the Maryland Senate and March 6 in the House of Delegates, both at 1 p.m. in Annapolis.

“The proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget includes significant cuts to state employee wages,” Lawson said, urging members to attend and advocate for fair treatment.

Additional upcoming union dates include an executive board meeting scheduled for Feb. 25 and the next regular union meeting on March 11, which will feature Kevin Matthews, president of AFSCME Local 2898.

The current negotiated agreement between the Charles County Board of Education and AFSCME Local 2981 (July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2027) can be viewed here.

Watch the Feb. 10 Board of Education meeting below.

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