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After public testimony, Poway Unified board removes SSAs from classified layoff list and approves resolution
Summary
Following testimony by student‑services assistants and students, the Poway Unified board voted to approve Resolution 72‑2025 for classified non‑employment but removed student‑services assistants from this evening's layoff list; the motion passed on voice vote with six in favor.
Poway Unified trustees approved Resolution 72‑2025 on classified non‑employment after lengthy public comment by student‑services assistants (SSAs) and other speakers. In response to testimony about the SSAs' role in Tier 1 social‑emotional supports, the board amended the resolution to exclude SSAs from tonight's list and approved the modified resolution by vocal count.
Mr. Jimenez introduced the classified resolution, saying it reflected reduced state revenues and lower enrollment; he also noted that 26 classified employees had requested hearings in a related matter and that an administrative‑law‑judge decision was expected in mid‑May for those cases. The list under consideration included 26 other classified employees affected by this resolution.
Several SSAs and educators addressed trustees. Darlene Woodworth (Sundance Elementary) said she delivered more than 270 Second Step lessons and served as a trusted adult on campus: "It's devastating when someone says our position is not needed anymore," she told the board. Kelly Ames (Midland Elementary) said she averages “well over a hundred visits a day” and described recent crises SSAs helped defuse. Lena Rosen (Highland Ranch Elementary) questioned whether the district could legally transfer SSA duties to counselors and noted large pay disparities between counselors and SSAs.
After public comment, trustees debated options and one board member moved to approve Resolution 72‑2025 with the exception of removing all SSAs from the list. The motion to approve the resolution excluding SSAs was seconded and approved (vocal count recorded as 6 in favor). Board members said SSAs were a priority and indicated staff would continue searching for alternate non‑personnel reductions or use of vacancies in future budget work.
Trustees emphasized the difficulty of the choices and the constraints imposed by statutory layoff timelines; they asked staff to return with recommendations before the district finalizes its budget in June. The board scheduled its next regular meeting for May 20.
