LOSD is facing a $10 million budget shortfall, which means that spending has to be reduced, including the funding to pay staff members.
The first round of teacher and classified layoffs happened before spring break; for some, this meant they lost their job, and for others they are being transferred to another school in the LOSD.
What does this mean for students? As well as noticeable staff shake ups, students can expect changes in the 2025-2026 school year.
“Students may see larger class sizes, less support staff and less flexibility with changes in class schedules after school starts,” said Superintendent Dr. Schiele.
Teachers around the school feel sympathy for their fellow staff members. AP Psychology teacher Natalie Shevlin is one teacher whose job is not threatened by the cuts, but she’s upset for her colleagues.
“It’s an awful situation for them to cut a teacher,” said Shevlin. “It is one of the worst things you could ever do.”
Throughout the difficulty of the situation, LHS French teacher Amy Ryan has been ensuring that the cuts are made thoughtfully. As president of the Lake Oswego teacher’s union, Ryan not only provides support to her fellow teachers, but helps ensure that the licensed staff cuts are as fair as possible and follow the contract.
“I’m just checking the district’s work, and it’s like a math problem,” said Ryan. “I check the seniority list, I compare it to the other lists, and verify that everything is exactly right.”
Recent additions to the staff are uncertain about their future at LHS.
Fellow French teacher Gina Johnson has been working at LHS for almost two years, after working as a teacher in the PPS district for over 20. While most teachers get signed on with a temporary contract, Johnson fought for a probational one, which she hoped would guarantee her a permanent position. Despite this, Johnson’s position is in question because of all of the cuts.
“It’s frustrating because the process is long,” said Johnson. “But just stepping in as a newbie here, I think that the teachers here are doing a great job of the best they can.”
According to an OPB report, the current funding model will give Oregon schools about $11.4 billion, up from $10.2 billion the previous year. This change is motivated by Gov. Tina Kotek in hopes to reduce staff layoffs. The Oregon State Legislature has not finalized the actual funding that LOSD will officially receive in the next fiscal year, which starts July 1.
Students are planning a letter writing campaign in April. By writing to their legislators, students can request more funding for LOSD, hoping to save teachers and programs.
“Students can advocate for education funding by staying informed, engaging with local and state leaders and participating in discussions about school funding,” said Schiele.
