Layoffs and Improvement

From the Journal Gazette in Fort Wayne, IN, comes this story about school improvement activity in one district struggling with layoffs.  Earlier in the year, the Fort Wayne Community School Board laid off 311 teachers. Monday, 149 of them were recalled. The rest should learn if they have a job when the board meets next week:

“…estimates suggested fewer than 91 teachers would lose their jobs. Also, the board voted to lay off eight secretaries, one cafeteria assistant, two groundskeepers and a custodian.

“As part of a $15 million budget cut and an effort to improve 11 of its struggling schools, the school board voted in the spring to eliminate 91 teaching positions and free up many educators for reassignment.

“The district recently finished several job fairs for regular teaching positions and those in LEAD schools – the moniker the district gave low-performing schools targeted for improvement…

“Teachers hired at the district’s 11 LEAD schools were required to meet a set of criteria, including showing a commitment to change and a willingness to receive additional professional training. Those who serve in LEAD schools will be evaluated in a different manner from other teachers and will receive a $3,000 lump sum after serving three years in a LEAD school.”