Lawrence Schools Anticipates Staff Reductions to Balance Budget

The superintendent of Lawrence Schools estimates the district will have to implement some 25 staff reductions to make up an anticipated $3.2 million budget deficit, he said Monday.

The reductions will involve 15 certificated staff members and 10 non-certificated staff, along with five retirees in the latter, according to Superintendent Gary Schall. Staff members have until April 1 to formally declare retirement.

“We will be able to project more accurately when we see who is retiring,” Schall said.

The shortfall is due to a $700,000 increase in payroll, $600,000 in contracts and $2 million in retirement costs. Last year’s budget was offset with the remainder of the district’s reserve fund.

Responding to a question about the proposed sale of Number Six School to Simone Development Companies, Schall said whether it is approved or not, it has no impact on the 2013-14 budget.