Durham Public Schools' Board approved major budget cuts affecting teachers, support staff, and student programs at an April 24 meeting dominated by nearly 50 speakers testifying against reductions and demanding answers about administrative priorities.
The board unanimously eliminated 27 classified central office positions effective July 1, saving approximately $2.6 million, while the proposed budget simultaneously eliminates over 112 teacher positions and 9 assistant principal roles. Chief Finance Officer Jeremy Teter explained the cuts stem from a $34 million shortfall created when federal pandemic relief funds sunset and previous budget errors were uncovered—last year's budget book omitted 315 positions. The board waived its 30-minute public comment limit to allow all 48 speakers to be heard, reflecting the gravity of community concerns.
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