Settlement voided; teacher layoff process to go to trial
The state Supreme Court has declined to reinstate a settlement that allowed local officials to shield schools from having disproportionate numbers of teachers laid off during a budget crisis. The voided settlement had allowed exceptions to rules stating that less-experienced teachers must be let go first.
The apparent result is that seniority will, once again, be the basis for layoffs in the Los Angeles Unified School District pending further litigation. In the meantime, district officials and allied attorneys said they are exploring options to keep the intent of the settlement in force.
With the settlement officially vacated, the original litigation is now on track to go to trial. New settlement negotiations also are possible.
“I am disappointed that the Supreme Court declined to hear the case, but I’m encouraged that we will be able to make our case quite clearly in the trial court,” said L.A. schools Supt. John Deasy.
