RICHLAND, Wash.-Cuts to paraeducator jobs within the Richland School District have reportedly been put on hold.
Earlier this week it was reported that jobs would be cut due to the RSD’s potential budget shortfall, however, the district announced in a letter to the community on Oct. 30, that it was no longer considering cuts.
The RSD’s letter read in part, “We understand the impacts staffing reductions have on a community like ours, so we are pausing the current request to reduce paraeducators while we formalize a comprehensive plan.”
According to today’s letter, the RSD board plans to focus on three priorities to guide the district through the process.
Priorities to be addressed by the RSD board in regard to the current budget situation.
Review business contracts and non-staff expenses: Eliminate unnecessary contracts and look into the renegotiation of current essential contracts.Evaluate district staffing: Determine which positions are necessary and focus reductions on roles with minimal impact to students.Attrition: Try to achieve reductions through retirement or voluntary departures and filling open positions with remaining staff.
The RSD plans to provide updates on the budget and staffing situation as a comprehensive plan is developed by the board.
