By Bill Zeeble, KERA reporter
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-766780.mp3
Dallas, TX – The Dallas Independent School District has laid off 63 central staff positions as a first effort to reduce the ballooning $84 million deficit. KERA's Bill Zeeble has more.
Because they have no contracts and don't teach, the so called at-will employees can be cut without school board approval. Superintendent Michael Hinojosa says it's his duty to take whatever responsible action he's empowered to take to address the matter and save the district dollars. In all, 164 positions were cut, but only 63 of them were filled. As a result, the district expects to save $3.5 million a year.
Meanwhile, the Texas Education Agency is watching DISD's efforts to shore up the deficit. If Commissioner Robert Scott decides education is suffering, he could appoint a conservator to oversee the finances. The Commissioner is in Dallas at a DISD event that the Superintendent also will attend. Bill Zeeble KERA news.