Stillman Valley ESPA

05/13/2024

Today we recognize our B&G, Activities, and Athletics departments! They work tirelessly behind the scenes every day for our students. Their dedication often goes unnoticed, but their impact is felt in every clean hallway, well-maintained facility, and memorable event. Thank you for what you do!

Our students and staff are fortunate to have great support from our buildings and grounds, athletics, and activities staff, who help create opportunities for extracurricular events for the students! Meridian CUSD is lucky to have heroes working here!

05/10/2024

As support staff, we often work hand-in-hand with our wonderful transportation and health services professionals to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our students. We absolutely adore and appreciate all of these individuals and their active part in our students' education and achievements.

Where would Meridian CUSD 223 be without our amazing transportation staff and health service staff? They are instrumental in ensuring our students are here at school and able to do their best! Thank you for everything you do!

05/06/2024

Our coworkers are all doing important work, and we wouldn't be able to support our students without them. Their impact on the kids, their buildings, and our culture as a whole is incredible. It's such a pleasure to work with interact with them every day!

Meridian CUSD 223 is a successful district due to the many staff members who work here to make it that way! Thank you to the food service staff, the technology department, and the library staff! Your impact on student achievement does not go unnoticed and is greatly appreciated!

05/02/2024

Virtual Bargaining Update!

Transcript is as follows;
"Good evening Meridian Communities. My name is Aech and I currently serve as the Secretary and negotiations committee spokesperson for the Stillman Valley Educational Support Personnel Association, or SVESPA. As I’m sure many of you are aware, whether you are staff, family, board members, or supporting community, we are currently in the middle of bargaining for a contract that is agreeable, sustainable, and fair for both our organization members and the board of education. I am here to give a small update on that front. We met with the board’s negotiating team on April 22nd to discuss financial proposals. While nothing has been agreed upon yet, it is the opinion of the SVESPA team that those hours were incredibly insightful and beneficial to finding a financial solution that supports a strong and stable contract going forward. During this meeting, we were able to lessen the monetary gap between our desires and the board’s significantly and we are hopeful to conclude within the next few meetings. Other than the economics, we are currently in agreement in the majority of other aspects, and look forward to meeting back with the board’s negotiating team to further discuss financials. Thank you. "

04/30/2024

Meet the Team; Our Treasurer, Cindy!

"My name is Cindy Meyers, and I currently serve as the treasurer for SVESPA.

I grew up in Stephenson County and moved to Monroe Center in 1979. Both of my children, Daphne and Cory, graduated from SVHS. When I lived here I was a member of Monroe Center Community Church and Monroe Township Fire Protection District for many years as a volunteer. I started working at Monroe Center Grade School in 1994 as a Teacher's Aide and left in 2004 to work at Rock Valley College (RVC). I retired from RVC after working there for 18 1/2 years and was an active member of their union.

I have 2 grandchildren in the Meridian Community Unit 223 District and 2 that live in New Berlin, WI. I returned to Monroe Center Grade School as a paraprofessional in November 2022. I am currently a special education paraprofessional for the Meridian School District at Monroe Center Grade School. I enjoy working with the children and helping them grow in their education.

I work part time at the Coronado Theater, BMO Center, and Davis Park for events. I also do security at Old Settlers Days in Rockton. When I'm not working I enjoy going on guided hikes and volunteering my time for the Winnebago County Forest Preserves by helping at events and being a blue bird monitor. I also help out with the box office for Main Street Players and usher for Starlight Theater. I love to travel and spend time with my grown kids and their families."

04/27/2024

Meet the Team; Our Secretary, Aech!

"Hello everyone! My name is Aech, and I currently serve as the secretary for SVESPA, as well as the building representative for Highland Elementary School. I graduated in 2020 as a third generation Meridian CUSD #223 student, and am now into my third fiscal year as a paraprofessional in the same district I grew up in. I never imagined working with kiddos when I was younger, but I can honestly say I've never loved or had a more fulfilling job than this one. Being able to encourage them in their day-to-day lives and support them during their early years is such an honor. I'm currently working on my Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology, and when I have free time I'm an avid crafter and video game connoisseur.

P.S. Pardon the crown, kindergarten was having a royal ball that day."

04/27/2024

Meet the Team; Our Vice President, Kristen!

"Hi there! I'm Kristen , a dedicated paraprofessional with five years of experience, supporting students at Monroe Center Grade School. As a parent of two children in the district, I deeply value the impact of education and find immense joy in my career choice. This year I have also taken on the role of Vice President for our local Stillman Valley ESPA. When I'm not working, you can find me indulging in my creative side, spending quality time with my family, or enjoying the therapeutic power of music. Passionate about both education and creativity, I'm committed to making a difference in the lives of students every day."

04/26/2024

Meet the Team; Our President, Heather!

"Hello, I'd like to introduce myself to you all! My name is Heather Bennett and I'm the president of the Stillman Valley Educational Support Personnel Association. I'm on my 6th year as a special education paraprofessional for the Meridian School District. I have always loved working with children and truly enjoy the career path I have chosen that allows me to do so everyday! When I'm not working I enjoy spending time with my family, most that also work within the district, and my 12 year old daughter Abby! I am excited to continue growing our Association and encouraging paraprofessionals to find their voice within their communities!"

04/26/2024

Good Afternoon Meridian communities! This is the official page for the newly formed Stillman Valley Educational Support Personnel Association; or SVESPA.

This organization is made of paraprofessionals, nurses, and other support staff in the employ of the Meridian CUSD #223 school district. Our goal is to better benefits, pay, and appreciation for the crucial staff members that care for and educate your children every day.

We are currently in negotiations with the Board of Education to secure a contract for our members. Please follow this page for updates and information, as well as to support your fellow community members who have dedicated their time to supporting your students.