Tehachapi Unified board approves certificated and classified position reductions; parents urge preserving freshman sports and social‑worker roles

TEHACHAPI, Calif. — The Tehachapi Unified School District Board of Trustees on Feb. 5 approved a package of resolutions that will reduce both certificated and classified staffing levels for the 2026–27 school year and establish seniority and tie‑breaker rules for any necessary layoffs.

On a series of roll‑call votes the board approved Resolution 01F, a list of certificated program reductions and credential‑based protections, and Resolutions 02F and 03F, which set tie‑breaker criteria and adopt the district seniority list used to determine the order of employment in reductions. The board then approved Resolution 04F, which discontinues or reduces specified classified positions. The motions were moved by Vice President Kelly and carried on voice or roll‑call votes; the classified‑position motion carried with one abstention from Trustee Christiansen (vote recorded 4 yes, 1 abstain, 2 absent).

Why it matters: the motions collectively set personnel and program changes the district says are needed to address a budget shortfall and will affect a mix of instructional, support and operational jobs. Public commenters told the board those cuts would remove supports that keep students safe, connected and on track academically.

What the board approved

Resolution 01F (certificated reductions) listed particular program and position adjustments including reductions to PE and other certificated categories; the document as read to the board stated a total of 12.75…