Paul Cuffee Upper School Votes to Unionize with the RIFTHP

In a historic move, the educators at Paul Cuffee Upper School have voted to join the Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals (RIFTHP), making it the first independent charter school in Rhode Island to unionize with the organization. 

This vote is a significant  step forward in the collective effort to ensure fair working conditions, enhanced educational quality, and a stronger voice for those dedicated to serving the school's diverse student body.  

With this decision, the teachers and staff of Paul Cuffee Upper School join a growing number of educators across Rhode Island and the nation who are organizing to advocate for their rights and the needs of their students. Unionization with RIFTHP will enable the school's faculty and staff to engage directly in discussions about working conditions, salaries, benefits, and other critical issues affecting both their professional lives and the learning environment of their students.

"We are thrilled to welcome Paul Cuffee Upper School into our union family," said Frank Flynn, President of the Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals. "The educators and staff at Paul Cuffee have demonstrated their dedication to building a school community that prioritizes respect, equity, and high-quality education. Together, we will work to ensure that their voices are heard, and that students and staff alike thrive in a supportive and inclusive environment."

The newly formed union at Paul Cuffee Upper School will soon begin the process of negotiating their first collective bargaining agreement.

The Paul Cuffee community has a long history of commitment to social justice and educational excellence, and this new chapter in its history reflects the strength and resilience of its educators. Unionization aligns with the school's values of mutual respect, collaboration, and dedication to student success.

For more information about the unionization efforts at Paul Cuffee Upper School or the Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals, please contact:

Contact:

Frank Flynn, President

Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals

Phone: (401) 273-9800

Email: fflynn@rifthp.org

About the Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals

The Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals (RIFTHP) represents over 12,000 educators, health professionals, and support staff across the state of Rhode Island. An affiliate of the American Federation of Teachers, RIFTHP advocates for the rights of its members and the improvement of public education and health care systems. With a focus on equity, professionalism, and collaboration, RIFTHP is committed to empowering educators and improving outcomes for students across the state.