Santa Ana Unified schools face layoffs amid budget crisis

Parents and educators rallied outside the Santa Ana Unified School District headquarters, protesting proposed layoffs before heading inside to voice their concerns directly to board members.

"A loss for words, definitely. I have kids in the district, and I have nieces and nephews coming up right behind them. We're definitely against it," said parent Isahi Peña.

Teacher Jocelyn Ramirez echoed the frustration, calling the cuts unfair. "There are so many great teachers here to support so many great students, and for it to happen so suddenly—it's a blindsight to everyone."

Despite hours of public outcry, the SAUSD board voted to approve the layoffs, eliminating 280 positions, including teachers and counselors.

Ron Hacker, Associate Superintendent of Business Services, defended the decision, citing financial necessity. "It's necessary because the district is facing a $187 million budget deficit this year. We have pretty massive declining enrollment—we're losing about 5% of our students every year, and that comes with a reduction in revenue."

For teachers like Ashley Atilano, the decision is especially difficult to accept. "This is only my second year in the district, so a part of me is wondering—why did you hire me to begin with if we're having these massive layoffs? To me, it's budget mismanagement."

Those affected will lose their jobs by March.

Santa AnaEducation