PVSD minimizes layoffs

Despite threats of a severe cut in state funding for public schools, a Pleasant Valley School District official said recently the district won't need to lay off permanent teachers next year.

Although the district won't rehire 27 temporary teachers and expects four teachers to retire at the end of the current school year, personnel loss won't "need to go any deeper" than that, said Julie Cavaleri, director of certificated personnel.

Pleasant Valley Education Association President Suzann Zeigler agreed, saying it's her understanding the district won't be laying off permanent teachers next year.

School districts across the state and county face a financial crisis next year with declining enrollment and the state threatening deep budget cuts. Pleasant Valley enrollment is projected to be 500 students less and the governor has proposed slashing education by $4.4 billion. - Michelle Knight