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From the Superintendent
March 2010
 Dr. James Q. Hammond, Superintendent |
Dear DJUSD Family and Friends, It is my unfortunate duty to inform you that this week the district began issuing first notices of possible layoff, or pink slips, to 149 of our valued employees. Though it is a process no one welcomes, I would like to provide you the opportunity to understand how it works. |
Following the Board's adoption of a resolution to eliminate particular services for the 2010-11 school year, teaching and counseling (certificated) staff affected will receive three separate notices. The first notice must be received by March 15 and informs the employee that their services may not be required next year. The second notice informs them of their right to request a hearing, so they may be certain their rights to seniority are fully protected. The final notice, delivered by May 15, informs them that their employment with the district ends on June 30th.
Secretaries, custodians and maintenance staff affected by layoff will be noticed later in the year, in accordance with state requirements for classified staff.
At this time, it is the district's intention to eliminate 88 full-time positions next year. Because we require flexibility to respond to unknowns such as changing student enrollment, or possible complications in the seniority process, more employees are typically noticed than will actually be laid-off. The additional notices also allow the district to respond should the state impose greater than expected reduction in revenue.
I want to emphasize that these notices in no way reflect upon the district's appreciation for an employee's performance or their contribution to our children's education. Many wonderful teachers, counselors, secretaries and paraeducators will receive notices. We sincerely regret the impact this will have on them, their families and the entire school community. As a staff, we will work to make sure students are protected from the negative consequences of this necessary process.
We hope that improved budget assumptions will allow us to rescind some of these notices. We continue to work collaboratively with our employees to negotiate salary concessions in exchange for furlough days next year. In addition, the early retirement incentive offered by the district will help mitigate the impact on our newer, less senior staff members.
Some of you have asked how you can help. The Davis Schools Foundation has launched their 2010 Dollar-A-Day campaign (https://davisschoolsfoundation.org/) to assist us in closing the $5.6 million budget gap. We thank them for their partnership and encourage you to visit their website to learn more.
It is inspiring to be part of a community that focuses on solutions. Together, we will overcome the challenges that face us and continue to provide an excellent education to the students of the Davis Joint Unified School District.
Respectfully,
Dr. James Hammond
Superintendent
superintendent@djusd.k12.ca.us
(530) 757-5300 ext. 140
Davis Joint Unified School District
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