JCPS custodians fighting to keep pay bump from federal COVID funding

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Custodians at Jefferson County Public Schools are fighting a looming cut to their paychecks.

Tuesday, the custodians union rallied before a Jefferson County Board of Education meeting, asking to keep an extra $3.50 per hour that they've been paid since 2020.

That money has been coming from COVID relief funds from the federal government. But that money will stop coming in at the end of June.

The custodians want the school district to keep paying them what they're making now and not cut the $3.50 an hour back out of their wages. Because of inflation, they said they need that extra pay bump just to afford essentials like rent, bills, and groceries for their families. They said a pay cut would be devastating.

"Deserving is definitely a good word," said Jonathan Ward. "We work hard and provide a clean environment for all of our children here in Louisville."

Ward has worked as a custodian at Shawnee High School for the past eight years. He said he's making about $18 an hour right now. Before the pay increase, it was $15.

The decision is ultimately up to the school district. In a statement, JCPS said it values the custodial staff and will soon start pay negotiations with the union.