Vancouver Teachers Rally Against Massive Layoffs

0:00Teachers and staff hit the streets Thursday morning outside Vancouver Public Schools, rallying against massive layoffs with pink slips in hand. Crowds gathered at spots like Walnut Grove Elementary starting at 7 a.m., joining walk-ins at other schools to show solidarity for those hit by. Reduction Enforced Notices The district sent out 289 layoff emails this week, mostly to educators with eight or fewer years on the job, all based on seniority rules and union contracts. This comes after the school board approved cuts for the 2026, 2027 year to tackle a $24 million dollar. Budget hole flagged in the state audit. Folks at the rallies were emotional, choking back tears as they talked about the cloud hanging over their schools. Teachers like those at Walnut Grove, a high diversity high poverty spot, feel the inequity deep, with 14 staff there facing pink slips and family stressing over health insurance limbo till June. Cuts target over 100 certified teacher spots, plus specialists, secretaries and maintenance roles, with many part-time equivalents in the mix.

1:08Parents worry too, especially since nearby Clark County districts are slashing jobs, leaving layoff folks stuck without easy options. District leaders say, not every notice means goodbye. Many juniors could get recalled once senior spots fill up, but right now, that uncertainty weighs. Heavy on the whole community as they fight to keep schools strong. Stay informed with Canada News today. AI powered updates. I'm Corey with the story.