Failing grade: San Diego Unified School District Announces Huge Layoffs

When the economy starts to falter, major consequences always follow. And in this case, it means a State budge shortfall, which in turn, means fewer funding dollars and budget cuts. And when the state announces major budget cuts, it always means our schools suffer. With an $80 million deficit looming for fiscal year 2008, the state's second largest school district, San Diego Unified, will be making some potentially devastating cuts as the school board has proposed that more than 900 teachers, principals, counselors and other employees be served layoff notices as the state finalizes its budget for the coming year. Other smaller school districts around San Diego County are also grappling with the state's deficit: Poway Unified must cut $15.5 million and Escondido Union School District must deal with $11 million in cuts - which means over 100 employees from both districts must face layoffs. Undoubtedly, other San Diego County school districts are facing the same dilemma. And, of course, it will be the students who suffer. Any comments? Read the latest article from the San Diego Union-Tribune.