Unpaid Wages Spark Protests in Memphis
MEMPHIS, Tenn. – A group of workers from a janitorial company that’s contracted by Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) found themselves standing outside their employer’s office this week, demanding the pay they believe is rightfully theirs. As the sun shone down on a pleasant October day with temperatures reaching a comfortable 66ยฐF, tensions were high in front of Fresh Start Facility Services.
The Demand for Pay
On Wednesday, employees gathered at Fresh Start, expressing their frustration over delayed paychecks that were supposed to be issued weekly. Workers like Jalyn Cobb made their feelings clear, stating, โWe ainโt working for free.โ The frustration did not go unnoticed, as they voiced their concerns and indicated that this was not an isolated incident.
Many of those employees, such as Shae Taylor, shared that every pay period seems to be riddled with issues. โEvery time itโs time to get paid, itโs a problem,โ she lamented. The issue this time appeared to stem from an email that informed them their payroll would be delayed once again due to an invoice with MSCS being โunder reviewโ.
A History of Issues
This isnโt the first time Fresh Start Facility Services has faced accusations from their employees. In the past, staff members have protested outside the company and even threatened to leave their jobs over similar pay issues. It seems like a frustrating cycle that keeps repeating itself, leaving workers feeling anxious about their finances.
One employee, highlighting the difficulties of these constant paycheck delays, said, โThis is crazy. I have kids. I have mouths to feed.โ Her words echoed the sentiments of many who are juggling their personal lives and financial responsibilities while waiting for their wages.
The Company Responds
Attempts to get a statement from Fresh Start Facility Services and Memphis-Shelby County Schools about the ongoing issues with invoicing and payroll delays have, so far, gone unanswered. Meanwhile, employees wait, some even expressing confusion over the amounts listed on their paychecks when they do finally receive them, with one employee stating, โI have no idea what theyโre doing with our money.โ
Impact Beyond Paychecks
While the focus is on the immediate issue of unpaid wages, the situation also raises broader questions about the labor environment within the district. With various challenges facing the school system, itโs essential for organizations to ensure that all staffโespecially those working behind the scenesโare treated fairly and with respect.
In other news within the Memphis-Shelby County Schools system, Cordova High automotive teacher Brian Sneed recently received national recognition for his teaching excellence, and local educators are being honored for their decade-long commitment to students. However, it’s also important to note that the district is grappling with a teacher shortage and has made the difficult decision to cancel this yearโs Fall Break Learning Academy.
Community Concerns
As schools and their employees grapple with various challenges, the community watches closely. This situation serves as a reminder of the importance of fair labor practices and how the well-being of workers can significantly impact local education.
Itโs clear that the janitorial workers of Memphis-Shelby County Schools are hoping for a swift resolution to their pay disputes. As they continue to push for their rightful earnings, let’s remember the critical role they play in keeping our schools clean and safe for students.
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
