Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) announced staffing changes that include both layoffs and new hires. The district aims to address a budget gap while also investing in classroom positions.
What happened
MPS announced it would be cutting non-classroom positions while simultaneously planning to add teachers and paraprofessionals for the upcoming school year. These changes are part of the district's 2026-27 draft budget.
How many employees affected
The district is cutting approximately 260 non-classroom positions. These cuts include 70 central office employees and 59 assistant principals. At the same time, MPS plans to add 89 licensed classroom teachers and 63 paraprofessionals. There will also be cuts to student-facing roles, including 15 school counselors and 11 children's health assistants.
Why layoffs happened
The layoffs are a measure to close a $46 million budget gap uncovered by financial auditors. The district expects the layoffs to save approximately $30 million, which will then be redirected into smaller class sizes.
Company background
MPS is a public school district. It has struggled to fill staff vacancies in the past, even offering bonuses to retired teachers willing to return to work.
Industry impact
The announcement reflects the financial pressures facing public school districts, requiring them to make difficult decisions about staffing and resource allocation.
What's next
MPS will proceed with the planned layoffs and staffing additions as outlined in its 2026-27 draft budget. The district hopes to fill the new classroom positions, and laid-off workers are eligible to apply for these roles. The district is "cautiously optimistic" about filling the new roles.
Source: jsonline.com