Since 1985, teachers with prior military service have been entitled to receive seniority credit and salary guide adjustment equal to their length of service, up to a maximum of four years credit. Thanks to advocacy by the NJEA Patriots Alliance and their partnership with state legislators, bill S2962/A2746 will be signed into law, extending this same benefit to military veteran educational support professionals (ESPs).
Sandi Wilcox, a Marine Corps veteran and teaching assistant in Burlington County, started the campaign that led to this monumental win for military veteran ESPs. She first met with Assemblywoman Andrea Katz (D-LD 8), who championed the bill in the state assembly. As Katz and veteran Senator Raj Mukherji (D-LD 32) led the legislation in their respective houses, Wilcox and the Patriots Alliance led NJEA’s advocacy, providing the testimony and member-driven support that helped power the bill to Gov. Sherrill’s desk.
While testifying on the bill in the State House, Wilcox promoted the bill as a social justice and equity-based solution, pointing out that salary and seniority credit are especially beneficial for ESPs, who are the lowest-paid employees in their districts, as well as the most vulnerable to layoffs. Fellow Patriots Alliance member and certified teacher, Dan Staples, testified in solidarity, framing the bill as a low-cost way to thank veteran ESPs for their service to their country and to their local communities.
After S2962/A2746 becomes law, veteran ESPs will be entitled to additional salary and seniority service credit equal to their years of military service, up to a maximum of four years. Seniority credit carries important benefits, including stronger job security and increased progress on salary guides means improved pension income upon retirement.
ESPs who believe they are eligible for this benefit should contact their field representative.