UTD opposes School Board’s
approval of layoffs

The members of the School Board approved Agenda Item A-3 in a 5-4 vote at Wednesday’s meeting, beginning the process of Reduction-in-Force, or RIF, for the first time in over 30 years.                 

UTD President Karen Aronowitz urged the nine member board to strike down the item. 

“I ask you to vote against A-3.  You have not been provided a plan for how to make your cuts, you have been provided a hatchet,” she said. And until you see the total implications of what you are doing, it is inappropriate for you to make decisions of this magnitude at this time.” 

The approved item was brought forth in the May 21 School Board meeting but was voted down by a 5-4 vote.  The item was again proposed by Superintendent Rudy Crew as one of the many cuts to reduce the $284 million the district says it needs to cut in order to balance the 2008-09 school budget.   

UTD and district representatives met Friday afternoon.  District officials have identified 118 UTD bargaining unit members who will be laid off, but will not be releasing any lists until these individuals are notified Monday (June 23) and Tuesday (June 24).     

“United Teacher of Dade is protecting people’s rights and making sure that if any decisions are made they are contractually correct and that they are done through seniority,” Aronowitz assured.   

The School Board is holding a Special Meeting on Wednesday, June 25.