SFUSD rescinds 151 staff layoffs in stunning reversal

In a dramatic reversal, the San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) rescinded layoff notices for 151 staff members, including 34 counselors and 117 paraeducators, addressing a $114 million deficit. Superintendent Dr. Maria Su announced the decision following collaboration with State Superintendent Tony Thurmond and state-appointed fiscal advisor Elliott Duchon. The layoffs were initially planned as part of a cost-cutting measure, but community advocacy highlighted the critical importance of these staff roles. Teanna Tillery, vice-president for paraeducators at the United Educators of San Francisco, credited the decision to sustained advocacy efforts from teachers, students, and families.

The district will also hire 77 additional teachers for the next school year, a significant increase from previous allocations. The change reflects a broader commitment to maintaining essential staffing levels in schools. Duchon, who has authority over SFUSD's financial decisions, played a key role in this outcome. This decision may reshape the district's approach to budgetary challenges moving forward.