Help GSN Teachers Recover Unpaid Wages

Growing Seeds North, a preschool in Portland, OR, has permanently closed, without having paid their teachers for recent hours worked. Due to gross mismanagement of the business, the owners are under tremendous debt and have stopped upholding their financial obligations. Among many things, this resulted in eviction from one of the school’s buildings, basic sanitary supplies being only sporadically available, health insurance premiums going unpaid with workers temporarily losing benefits. Now, the workers have not been paid wages from their last pay period– meaning some haven’t been paid for days worked as far back as 6/24. Aside from past labor being unpaid, the owners have yet to provide supporting documentation of the closure, which would allow the staff to file for unemployment benefits.

The workers of Growing Seeds North are a part of ILWU Local 5, and the union has filed grievances and threatened unfair labor practices with no response from the Employer. Other legal options are being considered however any legal channels to recover wages owed will be time consuming. Especially with a debt laden Employer, there is worry that wages may ultimately be unrecoverable.

Unfortunately, workers do not have the luxury of time. This is a very serious and potentially catastrophic event for workers who have basic survival expenses (food, rent, healthcare, bills) and they are already experiencing dire consequences of this wage theft.

The purpose of this fundraiser is to pay teachers what they are owed, but will likely never receive from their employer. Early childhood educators make a modest hourly income- this loss of owed income is devastating.

A statement from the parents, whose children were lovingly cared for by these teachers and staff:

These dedicated individuals have not only been essential caregivers for our children but have also been the heart and soul of our preschool community. Their tireless efforts, patience, and love have played a significant role in shaping our little ones’ lives and supporting us as parents.

These early childhood educators performed essential work, often without the recognition they deserved. They helped raise and nurture our children, providing a safe and enriching environment for them to grow and learn. Their impact extends far beyond the classroom, touching our families and community in profound ways.

“The reason we stayed at GSN all these years has become crystal clear - it is because of this community - the teachers, the parents, and the wonderful relationships my children have forged in the loving and learning atmosphere that’s been cultivated at the school everyday. The teachers have made my children who they are - thank you teachers for all that you have done to make this community so special to our family.”

-A parent who has had 3 children attend GSN

“My son was at GSN for a little over 6 months and I can’t think of a more special place for our first daycare experience. Quickly, we felt connected to all the teachers and staff at the school, as they all said hello and goodbye to our son and knew him by name within weeks. I didn’t expect to get to know teachers from other classes, but because the teachers worked so hard to create a community for all, we had a true sense of belonging. We have had GSN teachers babysit for us and are grateful they can continue to be in our lives in this way - we truly miss seeing them everyday.”

-An infant room parent

“When we went to pick up our things, our child said goodbye to the fish and goodbye to the classroom, and then sadly shared that she wished she had gotten the chance to say goodbye to her teachers and friends. We are grateful for all the years at GSN; our daughter flourished in the loving, creative, and enriching environment created by the teachers.

-A longtime GSN parent

I am so grateful for any support for these wonderful teachers, who are beyond deserving. Your donation will go directly to the teachers to help them with their immediate needs. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference and is a way to show our gratitude for their unwavering dedication and care.

Thank you for your generosity and support.