Save Miss Donna: Oakland School's Beloved Noon Supervisor

0:00It's April 23rd. You're listening to California News today, AI-powered local news. Oakland Unified School District faces tough budget cuts, but folks at La Esquilita are fighting hard to save one key staffer. Donna Jackson, the beloved new supervisor there for the past five years, got word her position might banish, sparking a rally from teachers, students, and parents to keep her on full time. The district didn't act her job out right, but offered two rough choices, dropped to three hours a day with no benefits or holidays, or transferred to a strange new school. Jackson says leaving these kids behind would break her heart, especially since she's made the place feel like family. Kids see her as their own grandma, with one student saying she fought for his adoption, and gives him reason to get up each day. Teachers back that up, calling her invaluable for keeping children happy and out of trouble during lunch, which helps their classroom focus. Even as the district scrambles to balance books, supporters argue skimping on her.

1:03Three hours saves peanuts compared to her impact. Jackson's story highlights how one person's role can mean everything to a school community. This push shows budget woes hit real lives, but the love for Miss Donna might just sway the decision her way.