Newton Public Schools May Cut Up To 74 Positions

NEWTON, MA — Newton Public Schools could cut up to 74 positions next year due to declining enrollment and budget constraints, reported The Boston Globe.

In an email to staff Tuesday, Superintendent David Fleishman said 50 to 60 jobs could be cut in the 2023 budget due to "extraordinary challenges," and an additional 12 to 14 jobs could be cut due to an enrollment drop.

“I am fully cognizant of the fact that this information is going to cause significant concern and it is particularly difficult to absorb in the midst of what is already a difficult year,” Fleishman wrote. “I am truly sorry to share this news and will do everything possible to address this most daunting challenge in a transparent, thoughtful and compassionate manner.”

About 2,500 people are employed by Newton Public Schools and 11,700 students are currently enrolled in the city’s schools, down about 1,000 from five years ago.

According to a presentation at Monday’s School Committee meeting, the budget cuts are being caused by increased costs of transportation, health insurance, and contractual obligations, as well as the expenses related to starting and expanding special education programs and services.

Fleishman is set to present the budget to the School Committee on Wednesday, March 23.