New Albany-Floyd County schools lays off 5 teachers

By TARA HETTINGER, New Albany Tribune
Tara.Hettinger@newsandtribune.com

A New Albany-Floyd County Consolidated School Corp. board decision Monday night will effectively lay off five teachers at the end of this school year, due to a Reduction in Force, or expenditure-reduction plan.

Though the board voted unanimously in favor of laying off the teachers, the decision was made after some emotional comments from the board.

"I see this as wives, as parents," board member Lee Ann Wiseheart said, pausing with emotion in her voice. "This is a very difficult decision for me, because I know it affects people."

"... I'm hopeful that we can find a way to call everyone back."

Jim Zoeller, board member, said he agrees, but it is the duty of the board to be fiscally responsible.

"I'm sorry it has to come to that, but that's the way it is," he said.

Three of the five will be offered part-time positions, according to Bill Briscoe, assistant to the superintendent for administration and operations.

Originally, the Reduction in Force plan included laying off nearly 20 teachers. However, Superintendent Dennis Brooks said that number was lowered due to retirements and resignations.