DENTON, Md. - Caroline County Public School teachers say they have had enough. Fifty of them gathered outside the county's school board office on Tuesday, demanding job protection and security ahead of the new school year.
Caroline County Educators Association President Amy Anderson says they often felt like an afterthought - ignored and overlooked over plans on how to reopen.
Anderson joined several others on Tuesday, honking and chanting in hopes the board of education would meet their demands.
Maryland State Education Association Uniserv Director for Caroline County Theresa Miles says one of those demands includes the re-hiring of at least 83 teaching assistants.
"They're a valuable asset and we know that our children gain by having them in the classroom," Miles said.
An online petition accruing over 400 signatures so far agree: the layoffs will affect the quality of teaching.
Anderson says the Board should also prioritize the safety of its staff and families by forgoing a requirement that have teachers teach from school buildings rather than at home.
"We have a long list of things that they could be doing right now, not later," Anderson said. "Right now, you have to be able to submit an application to tele-work and we want them to have a bit more flexibility with that."
A school spokesperson says several of those laid-off employees have been called back. The board is also allowing teachers to request to bring their kids with them to classrooms.
"The board and superintendent understand these are difficult and challenging times for everyone involved, and will continue to work with employees, families, and the community to make decisions that are in the best interest of students."
The board also created a recovery plan stakeholder group that they say included teachers' voices.
Anderson says the changes and policies from the group have so far been minimal.
Caroline County Public Schools officially reopen on Sept. 8.