The Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) is considering a proposal that would send layoff notices to more than 3,200 employees. The action is scheduled to be considered by the Board of Education, though union leaders have called for a pause until state revenue forecasts are clearer.
Financial Challenges for LAUSD
The proposed layoffs are part of a plan to address an ongoing structural deficit, where the district’s annual spending exceeds its income. LAUSD has avoided layoffs for over five years, largely due to temporary relief funds related to COVID-19. However, the district now projects deficits of $877 million for the 2026-2027 school year, and $443 million the following year.
While over 3,200 employees could receive notices, the actual number of job losses is expected to be lower. State law and union agreements require broad notifications, as senior employees may displace those with less tenure. The district report indicates a focus on eliminating 657 central office and centrally-funded positions, including 220 IT support technicians, 33 parent education support assistants, and 23 gardeners.
Union Response and Potential Labor Action
Unions representing LAUSD teachers, support staff, and principals are currently negotiating with the district. Members of United Teachers Los Angeles have authorized their leaders to call a strike. The union is seeking a 16% raise for new teachers, a 3% raise for all teachers in the second year of the contract, and additional pay increases based on experience, and education. The district has offered 2.5% in the first year, 2% in the second, and a 1% one-time bonus.
A coalition of three unions questioned the need for cuts, citing higher-than-projected state tax revenues. They have requested a dedicated board meeting to discuss the proposed cuts before the March 15 deadline for notifying credentialed teachers of potential layoffs. The unions argue that claims of financial hardship are “fearmongering” given the current state of revenue.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a “structural deficit”?
A structural deficit means that the Los Angeles Unified School District is spending more money annually than it is receiving, according to district officials.
How many LAUSD employees could be affected?
More than 3,200 employees could receive a notice of possible layoff, though the district states fewer than 1% of its more than 83,000 employees are likely to lose their jobs entirely.
What are the unions asking for in contract negotiations?
United Teachers Los Angeles is seeking an immediate 16% raise for new teachers, a 3% raise for all teachers in the second year of the contract, and additional pay increases based on experience and education.
As the Board of Education considers this proposal, it remains to be seen whether a compromise can be reached that avoids significant job losses and addresses the concerns of both the district and its unions.
