The Los Angeles school board has voted to send out 3,200 notices of possible layoffs, launching a process that is expected to result in more than 650 layoffs.
The Los Angeles Times reports that District Superintendent Alberto Carvalho says the cuts are necessary because the district is spending more than it is taking in.
“Delaying actions would not solve the problem,” Carvalho said. “In fact, kicking the can down the road would not eliminate reductions. Kicking the can down the road will actually magnify them.'
Carvalho emphasized that no school closures are part of the budget plan despite significant enrollment declines in recent years.
The potential layoffs target central and regional office staff.
“This approach reflects a deliberate effort to shield students and front-line educators and support staff from the most severe impacts of this fiscal downturn,” Carvalho said.
The district's report lists 657 “central office and centrally funded position closures.” Among those jobs: 220 information technology support technicians, 33 parent education support assistants, 23 gardeners, five area bus supervisors, five stock clerks and three interpreters. Another 52 positions would have reduced hours and 22 positions would be paid at a lower rate.
Central and regional office employees with the least seniority are most at risk. Others at risk include administrators in non-school positions and teachers in non-school positions.
The cuts are projected to save $150 million next year. Ultimately, the report states, about 1% of the district’s more than 83,000 employees are likely to lose a job or have their pay reduced.
The district expects to need about 750 fewer teachers next year but will rely on projected retirements, other departures and a hiring freeze for now.
