Custodian Contract Perk Helps With Communication

Union contracts usually contain salary raises and improved health insurance benefits for their members. A contract for custodians in Minneapolis included a less common benefit—free English lessons.

Last weekend, 15 custodians graduated from a fully funded English language program that was part of a contract secured for them by Service Employees International Union (SEIU) Local 26 following a 2020 strike, KSTP-TV reports. The program included one-hour classes held four days a week that were specially created for janitors working in downtown Minneapolis. The training program was the first of its kind in the city. 

The classes focused on helping custodians use conversational English on the job and outside of work, such as at doctor appointments. After graduating from the three-month program, participants felt more confident in their communication skills.

“They feel less fear of speaking English,” said instructor Nadia Smith. “They feel more power to communicate with others. And also, I think it’s a way to be more immersed in this country.”