Anne Arundel Social Workers Demand Equitable Pay at Board Meeting

UPDATE: Social workers from Anne Arundel County Public Schools urgently called for equitable pay during a critical Board of Education meeting on October 15, 2025. The educators, advocating for financial parity with their peers, are pushing the board to prioritize their compensation in the upcoming fiscal budget.

Scott Cangelosi, a seasoned social worker with 25 years of experience, stated, “Social workers, by nature, advocate for others, but it has become necessary to advocate for ourselves within AACPS.” The social workers, members of the Anne Arundel Teachers Association, expressed their concerns during public comment, hoping to influence budget allocations that affect their livelihoods.

The gathering included a show of solidarity, with supporters donning matching green T-shirts. Among them was Elizabeth Saperstein, a social worker at Meade High School, who highlighted the disparity in salaries between social workers and school psychologists, both of whom require a master’s degree and licensure. “We are here asking you not just to say you support us but to show it in this year’s budget,” Saperstein urged.

Currently, social workers in Anne Arundel schools earn starting salaries of either $71,839 or $82,456 depending on their work schedule, while pupil personnel workers and school psychologists begin at $92,363. This significant gap has led to frustration among social workers, who argue that they perform similar roles and possess comparable qualifications.

“Our work is broad and impactful, often filling the critical gaps that keep students connected, supported, and ready to learn,” said Shauna Rykiel, a social worker for a decade. She underscored the essential support they provide through individual and group counseling, family interventions, and crisis management.

During the meeting, board member Dana Schallheim proposed adding social workers to the budget priorities, but her motion faced opposition. Board President Robert Silkworth argued against naming specific employee groups, suggesting instead to generalize the priority to “all staff.” Ultimately, neither motion passed, preventing explicit recognition of social workers’ needs in the budget discussions.

The board’s budget priorities also include funding for special education, mental health support, and lowering class sizes. This meeting marks the beginning of a months-long process to finalize the district’s operating budget, and the social workers’ union plans to continue advocating for better compensation, staffing levels, and working conditions.

With the pressure mounting, the social workers are determined to make their voices heard. Union president Kristina Korona stated that their advocacy will persist until their needs are addressed. The outcome of this meeting could significantly impact the futures of many dedicated professionals and the students they serve.

As budget discussions unfold, the urgency for equitable pay in Anne Arundel County schools remains a pressing issue. The community is encouraged to support social workers in their quest for fairness, ensuring every student has the support they need to thrive.

For immediate updates and to support the cause, follow the developments as the board revisits their budgetary decisions in the coming weeks.