Yesterday 140 elementary school district layoffs were approved by Redwood City officials in California. These cuts were made to close the $13 million gap in the district’s budget. Lay offs were approved for 127 full time equivalent teachers, 11 temporary teachers, and 9 other administrative staff. The layoffs are not yet final and California law requires preliminary lay off notices to be sent to teachers by March 15, final notices by May 15.

These job cuts will increase class sizes to 34 and the International Baccalaureate, art and music programs will no longer be offered. Other positions that may be cut include a counselor, assistant director of special education, nurse, psychologist, and various reading specialists.