The Detroit News. School Board President Larry Burton cast the only vote against the deficit reduction plan after he learned that it could require firing 10 teachers next year if district finances don't improve. He noted the board had been told last week that the jobs could be eliminated through attrition. The board has to submit a plan to the State Board of Education by Jan. 31 on how it plans to erase the deficit.
State law prohibits schools from operating with a deficit.
If the deficit is not erased, the state could take over the East Detroit district. One parent, Geralyn Friedrich, said she is so upset with the crises and cutbacks that she is considering moving from the school district. She was upset that four special education teaching positions would be eliminated. Board member Craig Wodecki noted the board also is worried because if student enrollment declines, more cuts will be necessary. New student enrollment figures will be out next month.