Schools

CUSD to Weigh Bigger Class Sizes, Pay Cuts and More Furlough Days

As teachers and district officials head into contract negotiations for 2013-14, both sides lay out topics of discussion.

Pay cuts, furlough days and class sizes are once again the subject of teacher negotiations this year.

On Wednesday, the public will get a chance to weigh in on how the district should trim millions from its budget following year after year of cuts.

“While we are cautiously optimistic for the future, the district’s projected shortfall for 2013-14 is approximately $20 million,” according to a staff report to the Board of Trustees.

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Last year, the district and teachers’ union struck a one-year agreement that included a combination of pay cuts, furlough days and larger class sizes. This year, the district also seeks a one-year deal, according to the report.

Furlough days remain on the table.

Find out what's happening in San Juan Capistranowith free, real-time updates from Patch.

“The district proposes to continue temporary work-year reductions and corresponding salary decreases, if necessary, to address fiscal realities for the 2013-14 school year,” the district’s proposal states.

Class size is also up for discussion, with the district seeking “flexibility” in grades K-3 and 4-12. The district is also considering cuts to pay and benefits.

Meanwhile, the union, Capistrano Unified Education Association, submitted its proposal this week.

On class sizes, the teachers want to discuss how best to handle grade combination classes. On the topic of work hours, teachers want to “equalize” elementary staff duties and reduce “unnecessary paperwork,” among other items.

Wednesday's school board agenda also includes so-called contract openers with other employee groups, the non-teaching staffers and the Teamsters. The board meets at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the district headquarters, 331122 Valle Road in San Juan Capistrano.


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