EL CAJON, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) — Tensions ran high at the Grossmont Union High School District board meeting Tuesday evening. Hundreds of students, staff, and community members connected to the district continue to fight for keeping more than 60 positions currently in jeopardy.
“It’s really heartwarming. I love seeing the students out here because at the end of the day, they’re the ones that are affected,” said Dora Miranda.
Miranda is an Ed Specialist who has been told her position will likely be cut after the school years ends. She joins district librarians, psychologists, teachers, vice principals and program specialists, which are just some of the types of positions also being cut.
“It goes way further than learning in the classroom. We all have those teachers where it’s our safe place,” said Brylee Lelevire, senior at Santana High School.
Tuesday’s meeting was contentious at times and the room was at capacity with 500 people.
“GUHSD is projecting structural deficits into the future and our enrollment is declining,” said acting Superintendent Sandra Huezo.
The district is facing a nearly $2.5 million deficit and leadership says there is concern over future shortfalls.
“This budget crisis has been manufactured,” said Jackie Naah, a teacher and parent with the district.
Several people believe the situation is not dire and say the district should utilize reserve money to avoid cuts for now.
“I think it’s overwhelmingly clear that the students realize these cuts will endanger their education,” said Board Member Chris Fite.
Fite was the only board member to vote against the layoffs last month and still stands by his decision. The district says Fite and the four other board members will continue to review programs, and for now no decision is final.
“Positions they are cutting directly serve students and support their social and emotional learning and their academic performance. Make it make sense,” said Naah.
Final layoff notices must be issued by May 15.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by PostX News and is published from a syndicated feed.)
