FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — More than 200 Fresno Unified School District employees face layoffs, displacement or reduced roles after the school board approved workforce reductions tied to declining enrollment and budget concerns.
District officials say enrollment is projected to drop significantly over the next several years, driving the need for staffing cuts.
“Our enrollment is expected to decrease 1,000 to 1,500 kids every year until 2030…” said Annarita Howell, assistant superintendent of human resources.
On Monday, the Fresno Unified Board of Education approved two resolutions aimed at reducing staffing levels. The first eliminates 78 certificated positions, including teachers, nurses and vice principals, citing a lack of work or funding. The second places 196 classified employees – positions that do not require a degree, on final notice for layoff, displacement or reduction.
Affected employees are now entering a process that could determine whether they remain with the district in a different role.
“Employees who are aware that they may be participating in the layoff process could possibly bump another employee out of their position if they are more senior than another employee,” Howell said.
Under that “bumping” system, more senior employees may take positions held by less senior staff, who then must seek other available roles. District officials say the process could allow many workers to remain employed, though some may accept lower pay or different titles.
“We do feel we have enough vacancies, even with the elimination of positions,” Howell said.
Employees first received preliminary layoff notices in March, outlining options, including participating in hearings or navigating the bumping process.
“Participate either in hearings with an administrative law judge and the bumping process or the bumping process alone… or even opt out completely if they choose to be released from Fresno Unified,” Howell said.
Despite the criticism, district leaders maintain the reductions are necessary to stabilize finances as student enrollment declines.
“We had to take this extra step to protect the interests of our students and our actions because we do not want to cut student services, but we need to do what it takes,” Howell said.
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