ABSS considers new budget plan that would result in staff cuts

BURLINGTON, N.C. — Some staff members in the Alamance-Burlington school system are facing an uncertain future, it comes amid the school system’s budget crisis.

The school system proposed a deficit reduction plan Friday, with possible staff reductions. Before voting, school board members try to weigh the pros and cons.

“When you look at people you know, many of whom are friends, they have families. It’s hard to impact their jobs, but it’s also a potential impact at this point. What does that look like- “If it passes on Tuesday, our goal is certainly for everyone to keep their jobs at ABSS, but obviously they will be different on July 1,” explained Sandy Ellington-Graves, chair of the board. of ABSS administration.

Interim Superintendent Dr. Bill Harrison detailed the proposed changes by phone Monday.

There are many details, but here are a few main points:

Under this proposal, 38 teacher coaches and seven graduation coaches will return to the classroom and teach. Librarians have the opportunity to return to the classroom and teach or manage middle and high school programs.

A former ABSS educator has explained his frustration with the proposed changes.

“We shouldn’t have to lose librarians, so there won’t be toxic mold. It’s insane that we have this much wealth at the state level and Alamance-Burlington schools are going to So the question is, can the Alamance County commissioners close the gap that should not exist,” said Matthew Townsend, former ABSS professor.

The school board will vote on the proposal on Tuesday, May 14.

Staff reductions were discussed in January; however, the system found the resources needed to avoid budget cuts through the end of the school year. This proposal concerns the next school year.

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