OUSD takes a step toward massive cuts amid $100 million shortfall
OAKLAND, Calif. (KGO) -- Frustrations ran high Wednesday night as the Oakland Unified School District faces a $100 million budget shortfall next year.
The school board approved a plan by the superintendent for major cuts to schools and the district office, and they're still not ruling out school closures. Without cuts, Oakland Unified could be months away from running out of money.
"We want to make sure the cuts are away from the kids," said Kampala Taiz-Rancifer, President of the Oakland Education Association. "There are too many things that are important and critical to instruction, to protecting our most vulnerable kids, to safety."
MORE: Violence interrupters may face budget cuts amid Oakland's Skyline High School shooting incident
The OUSD Board of Education considered several scenarios that would see cuts to everything from athletics, libraries, clubs, teacher programs, and school security.
Students from Skyline High School took to the podium, fighting to save violence prevention programs. Last month, a student was shot and injured on campus.
"I deserve the right to go to a safe learning community with the knowledge of knowing the district is on my side, but it seems you're not," said Torrian Coats, a Skyline High School senior. "This needs to be stopped now, I'm tired of going on lockdowns."
MORE: Oakland Unified School District once again facing budget issues
The plan the board approved Wednesday is non-binding, but it's estimated the district will save around $103 million.
"We don't want any more cuts; we need more people on campus, we need more resources," said Rebecca Riseman, parent of a Skyline High School student. "My daughter loves Skyline. I think Skyline's a great school, we want to see it thrive, so more safety."
Now, staff will begin digging into how to make cuts in several areas, which include decreasing central office staff and cutting extra-curricular budgets, such as for sports and library services. It will also include reviewing service contracts, limiting classroom supplies, and considering school closures or mergers for future long-term savings.
