Springfield School Board Approves 27 Staff Cuts After Public Outcry

The Springfield Public Schools Board voted 3–2 on January 12 to approve a reduction in force affecting 27 certified staff positions.

During public comment, teachers, students, and community members urged the board to reconsider mid-year layoffs and explore alternatives such as a local levy.

Springfield High School teacher Laura Farrelly criticized district leadership, citing exit committee feedback and Oregon Department of Education data showing certified and classified staffing declines since 2019 while administrative positions increased. She also questioned the district’s $35,000 spending on a formal complaint investigation.

Special education teacher Pauline Pham warned that staff reductions disrupt trusted relationships essential to student safety and learning. A Springfield High School sophomore told the board students feel excluded from the budget process and feared losing classes they value.

Several speakers advocated for revenue options rather than cuts.including a local levy, estimated to cost the average homeowners about $35 per month.

The 2025-26 budget, approved unanimously last June, included no cost-of-living adjustment but allowed pay increases for eligible employees.

The staff reductions will take effect on January 30, during the semester break.