Mayor Katjana Ballantyne is announcing that the City of Somerville, and the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), have successfully reached a collective bargaining agreement that will provide better wages and benefits for these essential public safety employees.

“Crossing guards play a vital role in helping our entire SPS community start and end each school day safely,” said Mayor Ballantyne. “This new collective bargaining agreement with the SEIU not only recognizes the crucial role that crossing guards play in community safety, but also demonstrates our commitment to fair compensation and improved working conditions for our public servants.”

Under the terms of the new contract, crossing guards will receive a 20 percent pay increase from $20/an hour to $24/an hour effective immediately, with a commitment to 2.5% annual raises in subsequent fiscal years. Current guards will also receive retroactive pay dating back to July of 2023, the official start date of the contract.

The salary increase brings Somerville’s pay rate for these positions in line with neighboring communities, and will help attract and retain dedicated candidates for these vital public service roles.

In a first for these part-time positions, in addition to salary increases, Somerville crossing guards will also now be provided with paid sick leave benefits. The new contract also includes stipends for improved outgear gear including an annual footwear stipend and a full-length high visibility raincoat to help ensure the comfort and safety of the guards in all conditions.

If you are interested in learning more about joining the City of Somerville as a crossing guard, or other employment opportunities, please visit somervillema.gov/careers.