The Cleveland Metropolitan School District (CMSD) is implementing layoffs to address a growing budget deficit and declining student enrollment. District officials say the cuts are necessary to improve outcomes for students.
What happened
CMSD is laying off 410 full-time workers as part of a restructuring plan. Layoff notices began going out to teachers and administrators. The district is also closing or merging 29 schools.
How many employees affected
The layoffs will impact 410 full-time employees, including 86 administrators and 146 teachers. The union believes the layoffs include about 100 other employees.
Why layoffs happened
The district faces a "significant" deficit, projected to increase from $4.2 million in fiscal year 2025 to $62.2 million in fiscal year 2029. Declining enrollment is also a factor, with the district serving approximately 36,000 fewer students than it did 20 years ago. Enrollment dropped 50% during that time, while staffing dropped only 31%.
Company background
The Cleveland Metropolitan School District is a large urban school district in Ohio. It is currently restructuring and closing or merging 29 schools. In 2024, voters approved a combined bond and operating levy, but it was not enough to close the budget gap.
Industry impact
Like many large urban districts in Ohio and the U.S., CMSD is experiencing declining enrollment due to a drop in birth rates. These financial pressures are forcing the district to make difficult decisions about staffing and resources.
What's next
Laid-off staff members will be eligible for re-hire elsewhere in the district. The district expects the layoffs to save $50 million annually. District officials say the changes will make the school system better.