Mount Prospect’s District 57 could cut 20 teachers

About 20 teachers could be laid off before next school year if Mount Prospect Elementary District 57’s school board approves a new staffing plan on Thursday.

The nontenured teachers were notified about the possible move earlier this week, said Superintendent Elaine Aumiller.

“It was a courtesy to let them know,” she said. “It has to do with budget constraints. They are all wonderful people.”

To be tenured, teachers must work for the district full time for four consecutive years. Those who could be laid off currently work at all four of the district’s schools, Aumiller said.

When asked if the layoffs would affect class sizes, she said “absolutely,” but couldn’t go into more detail.

Aumiller said she would know how much the layoffs would save the district by Thursday’s school board meeting, where she’ll also be talking about other ways the district can save money next year.

The board meeting starts at 7:30 p.m. at Lions Park School, 300 E. Council Trail. The board will be meeting in closed session for 90 minutes before the public session.

District 57 dipped into its reserve account to cover a $1.5 million budget deficit this school year. Next year’s financial projections look even worse, according to district officials.

Aumiller said she hasn’t received any phone calls from parents upset about the possible layoffs but understands that people are talking about it.

“I know it’s on Facebook,” she said.