For the teacher union perspective, see: https://wpdash.medianewsgroup.com/2025/03/28/jonathan-gardner…pasadena-schools
We understand the concern and frustration expressed by the United Teachers of Pasadena (UTP) regarding employee reductions. These incredibly difficult decisions were made with one core priority in mind: ensuring the long-term financial stability of our district so that we can continue to provide a high-quality education to all Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD) students.
I want to provide some positive news on recent key steps we’ve taken to support our students and save jobs. In alignment with conversations with the Superintendent’s Budget Advisory Committee last fall to reimagine how to support students’ academic and social-emotional needs, we are implementing a redesign of the Teacher on Special Assignment (TOSA) position, with a renewed focus on Multi-Tiered Systems of Support. Thanks to major strategic adjustments, federal funding and fire recovery funds, we have created 25 new TOSA positions. All qualified employees, including those who recently received layoff notices, are encouraged to apply. This is a significant achievement and underscores our commitment to protecting as many classroom roles as possible during these challenging financial times.
Before the layoff notices were approved on Feb. 27, we took into consideration retirements and departures already known to us. Since then, additional staff have submitted retirement or departure plans, which will help us rescind more layoffs.
Reductions are a result of long-standing budgetary challenges. PUSD, like many school districts across California, has been grappling with a structural deficit. This issue existed before the COVID-19 pandemic, and factors such as declining enrollment, rising operational costs, and overall underfunding from the state have only exacerbated our financial situation. This year, the aftermath of the Eaton fire added additional strain, but we are determined to rebuild and recover with a focus on fiscal responsibility.
The decisions to reduce staff are never made lightly. We understand that every reduction impacts not only the individual educators affected but also the students they serve. In our planning process, we have worked closely with our community, including teachers, parents, and administrators, to find a balance between preserving essential educational programs and addressing the district’s deficit. We recognize that our educators are the heart of our schools, and we are doing everything we can to protect them, while addressing the fiscal reality that we face.
The demand to rescind reductions is rooted in a desire to protect both the teachers and the students who depend on the support services they provide. We share this dedication to protecting teachers, student well-being and ensuring stability. We agree that students deserve consistency and support, particularly as we navigate the recovery period following the challenges of the past few years. However, we also face the reality that without cuts, we would face an even more severe fiscal situation next year – one that would likely result in even larger reductions and a far greater disruption to our educational programs.
One of the most important things to note about the reductions is that we are working hard to preserve the core programs that support student success. These include dual immersion programs, International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement courses, college and career academies, arts education, athletics and specialized services for students with disabilities. We have also ensured that we continue to provide wellness and support services, as we recognize the critical importance of student mental health and social-emotional development, especially as our community continues to recover from the pandemic and the fire.
Looking ahead, our district’s financial situation will continue to require vigilance and careful planning. We are not out of the woods yet. While the funding we have received has provided some short-term relief, this is not a long-term solution. We must continue advocating for increased funding from the state and federal levels, and we must remain flexible as we adapt to changing financial realities.
I know this is all so difficult, and I want you to know that we see you, we hear you, and we understand your pain and frustration. We feel the same way. We need the continued support and partnership of every member of our school community. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient PUSD.
Thank you for standing with us as we navigate these challenges and stay focused on what truly matters – our students’ success.
Dr. Elizabeth J. Blanco is the superintendent of the Pasadena Unified School District.
