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Pasadena Unified leaders vote tonight with $24M in budget cuts on the line
Among the proposed high school cuts are teachers, counselors, custodial staff and athletics funding.
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Elly Yu
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LAist
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The Pasadena Unified School District Board will vote tonight on $24.3 million in recommended budget cuts made largely through the elimination of school-based staff and programs.
The vote determines the lion’s share of the district’s planned $30.5 million reduction and represents about 16% of the district's $189 million projected general fund budget next school year.
What's being cut?
Among the proposed cuts are librarians, teachers, gardeners and school office staff. The board also will weigh layoffs in district administration and canceling contracted services such as professional development.
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How's the community responding?
Parents and educators say the cuts will decimate programs — including arts, science and athletics — that attract families to the district and benefit students. As of Wednesday afternoon, 700 people had signed an online petition urging district leadership to reconsider the cuts.
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Staff recommend heavy cuts, which represent about 16% of the district’s projected budget.Listen 3:50
How did it get to this point?
For the past several years, PUSD has spent more money than it brings in and is projected to have a $29 million budget deficit next school year. One factor is that PUSD, like many districts in the region, is enrolling fewer students, which equates to less funding. The Los Angeles County Office of Education has warned that without significant reductions in spending, the district will not be able to meet its financial obligations and risks losing the ability to govern itself.
How you can weigh in
On Thursday, the board could approve the cuts as presented or propose changes. Identify the board member who represents your school and contact them by phone or email. People can also speak up in person during the board meeting’s public comment period at 7:15 p.m. or submit thoughts early to publiccomment@pusd.us.
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