Unfortunately, our district is being forced to make cuts as well. While my position may be safe, we will probably have to increase class sizes and maybe even lose a few paraprofessionals. Any cuts in staffing mean less adults working with children. Our paras work with students in small groups and also one-on-one. They are vital to the success of some of our most needy students. It is scary waiting to see what and who will be cut for next year. I feel like I'm holding my breath until we know what's going to happen. Only time will tell, I guess.

We will not know the extent of who is affected until April 15th. First and second year teachers to the district have already been told that their contracts will not be renewed. We've been warned that class sizes could increase, our salaries could decrease, programs like full-day kindergarten could be cut, librarians may be lost, nurses possibly gone, PE/Music/Art could be cut, administrators let go, and many teachers and support staff may not be part of our school or district in the very near future. Arizona is already ranked near the bottom for spending in education. The state's priorities need to be seriously examined!

@Heather: In Arizona, our schools are expected to inform teachers of non-renewal in April but the Legislature doesn't finalize its budget until much later. I wonder why the discrepancy? There's such a wait-and-see game that stresses everyone out!

Our district seems to be pretty transparent about what is happening, though they don't have all the answers. The teachers who are being released seem to know who they are. I think we are just treading water and hoping by Fall 09, there will be some sense of normalcy.

Same story here in Jersey. After moving back to NJ from AZ (miss you guys!) I was unable to find a job so I starting subbing. Thankfully, a position opened up for me and I became a full-time classroom teacher this year. However, the district is slated to make BIG cuts across the board this year. "All non-tenure elementary teachers: go and get your resumes out!" Nice message, huh? The problem is - NOONE is hiring now in NJ! It seems as though ALL districts in Jersey are cutting! Where do I go now?! Well, I've researched my options and there aren't many. The Superintendent proposed 3 scenarios for this year's budget: all with cuts, some with a raise in taxes. Last Monday they voted on which scenario to be voted on by the public on April 21st. Approx. 400 staff members plus people from the public were in attendance. Many spoke and urged the board to choose the scenario where the budget would go to cap but it, after 5 hours >:( was voted down. So, research has begun for me, as well as gathering of resumes. Good luck out there!

@Michelle: I can understand your frustration. In Arizona money is being funneled into mass transit which, if you've ever visited our sunny state, is not very realistic. Not only that but it hasn't been proven to be effective yet. At the same time, education funds are disappearing. Seems like our priorities are out of line. Best of luck to you, Michelle. And best of luck to our students as well.