Board approves resolution authorizing potential reductions in certificated services amid enrollment uncertainty

The El Camino Real Charter High District board voted to approve a resolution authorizing the reduction or elimination of certain certificated services, a step that allows administration to issue preliminary notices if required by declining enrollment or budgetary changes.

Human resources presenter Miss Rodriguez said the resolution and its Exhibit A list approximately 44 certificated positions that could be affected “by the end of this school year” if worst‑case enrollment and funding changes materialize. Rodriguez said the district followed guidance urging issuance of notices to probationary employees as well as potential non‑reelect letters so the district can respond quickly if cuts prove necessary.

Board members pressed administration for detail. One member asked for the anticipated enrollment change driving staffing decisions; Rodriguez said the district had not finished open enrollment figures but estimated “about 150 to 175” (the meeting record does not specify whether that figure refers to incoming students, projected decrease, or another enrollment metric). Board members warned that class sizes could increase substantially if large eliminations occur; staff acknowledged class‑size effects would depend on the final number of positions reduced and actual enrollment.

Motions and vote: The board approved the resolution by roll call; the meeting record shows a 5–1 result with one board member voting no and the motion carrying. Board members emphasized the action was a planning step that authorizes issuance of preliminary notices required under state timelines if cuts become necessary; actual layoffs or reassignments would be decided later based on final enrollment and bargaining obligations.

Why it matters: Issuing a reduction‑in‑force resolution begins a formal process that can lead to layoffs, non‑reemployment notices for probationary staff and reallocation of personnel. The district cited enrollment uncertainty and a need to plan for multiple scenarios.

Details and context: Miss Rodriguez said Exhibit A lists roughly 44 positions “taken under consideration,” and that the district had attended School Services of California guidance recommending preliminary notices for probationary staff. One board member noted the district’s unrestricted balance was around $17 million (as stated in the meeting); board members debated whether to issue notices now or wait for further enrollment data.

Next steps: Administration may issue preliminary notices consistent with statutory timelines if enrollment or funding numbers require them; the board said it would receive updates and that any final reductions would return to the board for approval.