By James Weber Also available in Spanish Following the recession of the early 1990s, American industry cut operations, keeping just enough staff to thrive at the bottom line. Likewise, most public schools, out of financial necessity, have had to reduce costs, while maintaining facilities and essential instructional programs and remaining accountable for student outcomes. School downsizing can mean making painful decisions about program elimination and staff layoffs.
Preparation is the best approach.
With an ongoing program of self-examination, a district may not have to experience the wholesale layoffs, unattended school grounds, and dark buildings that we imagine in our worst daydreaming. With preparation, downsizing will look like the pruning that well-run operations experience periodically. Distinguish essential from nonessential services in advance. Rank programs according to whether they meet legal requirements or satisfy student and community needs. These programs cannot be eliminated or, usually, much reduced.