Fresno Unified employees are sounding the alarm over proposed district layoffs, warning that the cuts would make schools less safe, less clean, and less supportive for students.
Educators and classified staff plan to share firsthand accounts at a March 25 “Save Our Schools” press conference, detailing how reductions would eliminate early‑learning teachers, reduce access to nurses and counselors, lengthen bus routes, and leave campuses understaffed.
Workers emphasize that these cuts would undermine classroom stability and student well‑being at a time when schools are already stretched thin.
“You can’t say we’re broke while sitting on $175 million in unrestricted funds.”
— Manuel Bonilla
Union leaders argue the layoffs are a choice — not a financial necessity. Fresno Unified is projected to end the year with $315 million on hand, including $175 million in unrestricted funds that could preserve student‑facing positions.
FTA President Manuel Bonilla said district leaders cannot claim hardship while maintaining management hiring and approving a 113% Board of Education raise, calling the cuts a question of misplaced priorities.
SEIU Local 521 members echoed that understaffing shifts the burden onto remaining workers and students, warning that the community will feel the impact of every eliminated role.
Manuel Bonilla joined Philip Teresi to talk about FUSD’s Budget Shell games.
Listen to the interview here.
