San José Spotlight: Santa Clara County Education Office to Implement Layoffs – What It Means for Students and Teachers

The Santa Clara County Office of Education is facing significant changes, including potential job cuts. Employees may receive notices of their termination by March 15. Although the exact number of jobs impacted is not clear, officials are addressing concerns about excessive management costs and high salaries for executive assistants.

The office stated it is grappling with a “constricted financial future.” Changes in federal funding, expiring grants, and shifts in services are impacting budgets, similar to challenges faced by educational agencies nationwide. To address these issues, the leadership aims to strengthen its support for students and families while ensuring a sustainable staffing model.

This comes as the agency investigates financial practices under former Superintendent Mary Ann Dewan. She was dismissed in October, which led to public criticism from lawmakers and educators. Interim Superintendent Charles Hinman is now overseeing the transition, though he has not commented on the recent developments.

An analysis revealed that Dewan’s office included many high-paid assistants, with salaries ranging from $150,000 to $192,000. Some board members defended Dewan, arguing she had a heavy workload and her assistants were essential for managing various responsibilities within the office.

Following the negative feedback about Dewan’s dismissal, the board and Hinman initiated inquiries into past spending, including questionable contracts and unauthorized employee surveillance. Their findings have been shared with relevant authorities, including the district attorney.

As the Santa Clara County Office of Education navigates these challenges, the focus remains on ensuring that resources are used efficiently to support the education of local students.

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