Op-Ed | New York City could become more affordable right now by passing paraprofessional ‘respect check’ legislation

This week (11/13), the New York City Council will hold a hearing on proposed legislation known as the Paraprofessional ‘Respect Check’, a historic bill that would provide all New York City public school paraprofessionals with an annual $10,000 payment, outside and in addition to the traditional salary schedule and labor contract.

The RESPECT check is necessary because paraprofessionals don’t earn enough. The result is that there are thousands of vacant paraprofessional positions, and so thousands of students who are going without the educational support they need. The RESPECT check would address this hiring and retention crisis.

The RESPECT check would also mean validation – that the time, energy, and care I pour into my students every day truly matter. As a full-time paraprofessional at Sunset Park High School, I work closely with students who need guidance, encouragement, and consistency to reach their full potential. I take pride in being that steady support system – the one who shows up, listens, and helps them believe in themselves.

But the truth is, the love we have for this work doesn’t always match the compensation we receive. The RESPECT check would ease financial burdens for me and my family, but more importantly, it would send a clear message that the city values the vital role paraprofessionals play in education.

It’s not just about money – it’s about fairness, recognition, and dignity. It’s about acknowledging that paraprofessionals are educators too. This check would remind us that our commitment to our students and schools is finally being respected and appreciated the way it should be.

The part of my work I’m most proud of is the connection I build with students – especially those who need a little extra patience, understanding, and encouragement to see their own potential. Every breakthrough moment, whether it’s a student finally grasping a lesson or simply choosing to stay in class instead of giving up, reminds me why I do this job.

As paraprofessionals, we often work quietly behind the scenes, but our impact is anything but small. We help create safe spaces for students to learn, grow, and believe in themselves again. I take pride in knowing that the time I invest – listening, guiding, and showing up consistently – helps shape lives in a positive way.

What I’m most proud of isn’t a single accomplishment; it’s the everyday moments when my students succeed, smile, or start to believe they can achieve something greater. That’s the kind of success that keeps me coming back with the same energy and heart every day.

Moses Gonzalez is a Paraprofessional for New York City Public Schools at Sunset Park High School, Brooklyn.