Keller ISD Lays Off 200 in Round 1. Round 2 of Layoffs to Follow

Keller ISD, a TEA recognized district in Tarrant County, recently laid off 200 teachers and staff with more cuts coming in Round 2.

From wfaa.com:

Keller ISD Superintendent Dr. James R. Veitenheimer said 90 percent of this second phase involve people. That means many more teachers and other district employees — from custodians to the chief financial officer — will likely lose their jobs. 

Among the cuts being considered: Leadership positions, including 12 teachers, 8 counselors, 10 administrators and 41 paraprofessionals. That will save the district $7.3 million. 

The board will also discuss eliminating a big hunk of its school bus transportation. That would impact 8,900 students who currently travel on school buses to and from class.
Before the board meeting ended Monday night, administrators detailed their new plan for more teacher layoffs, including 12 positions from elementary schools, two from middle schools and 57 from high schools. 

They also announced that only 58 teachers have elected to take a $2,500 incentive being offered to those who resign voluntarily.

The district is in a wealthy suburb, so it will be interesting to see how parents react. The district is fast growing, with about 2000 new students each year. There are five high schools, six middle schools, six intermediate schools and 22 elementary schools.