State budget cuts over the past few years have left the Los Angeles Unified School District with a budget deficit of approximately $390 million. To address this shortfall, the School Board approved a “worst case” budget for 2012-13 that includes 8,000 – 10,000 potential layoffs for classified employees if California does not secure new revenue.
On May 10, 2012, SEIU Local 99 will begin discussions with LAUSD over the impact of these cuts on Local 99 members. We are committed to saving jobs and services and will discuss all options to minimize layoffs, including furlough days.
Many factors, including the Governor’s upcoming May Revise budget proposal and the November election on new revenue, will impact the final outcome of any staff reductions. However, because the District is required to present a budget plan to the County Board of Education by June 30, 2012, LAUSD must budget for the 2012-13 school year based on its current financial situation.
SEIU Local 99 is doing its part to make sure our schools are funded and jobs are saved.
Recently, we partnered with the LA Fund for Public Schools to help introduce the Breakfast in the Classroom program. This new program will provide breakfast for more students and help save hundreds of cafeteria jobs by bringing an estimated $23.46 million in revenue to LAUSD’s Food Services program over the next three years.
Additionally, in just four weeks, SEIU Local 99 members collected over 7000 signatures to help Governor Jerry Brown’s revenue initiative qualify for the November ballot. If voters approve this “Millionaire’s Tax,” we will secure up to $9 billion for education. Our union is also spearheading efforts to help pass LAUSD’s parcel tax initiative. This initiative will raise approximately $300 million that will go directly to LAUSD schools.
Together, we are making a difference in difficult times. Let’s continue to work together to save jobs and services. Stay tuned for more updates.
