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"Due to unforeseen circumstances, all schools will be on a half day schedule, today, October 17th," Superintendent Dr. Christopher Irving said. "We apologize for the late notice. Again, all students will be on a half-day schedule."
On Wednesday, at a packed meeting, filled with concerned parents, teachers and coaches, the school board approved the elimination of 93 positions. Irving, who started as superintendent in July, said the moves were necessary with the district $25 million over its budget. The district would not be able to make payroll if the cuts weren't made immediately, Irving said.
On social media, users reacted negatively to the news.
"Since it’s a half day, that’s gives y’all extra time to find that money and save our teachers," one user exclaimed.
"You have to do better," another user said. "How about full transparency and agree to an independent audit investigation going back 10 years. Where’s the money? I am all for the students and teachers. Not your pockets."
"The unforeseen circumstances is a result of teachers reacting to the news that 93 positions are being eliminated come December," another user wrote. "The district is willing to water down the quality of education like this? Students in this district need the services and the teachers."
Positions eliminated include substitute teachers, literacy coaches, math coaches and social workers. The layoffs will occur by Dec. 15.
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