West Linn-Wilsonville board authorizes process for possible staff reductions amid budget shortfall

The West Linn-Wilsonville School District board voted unanimously to determine that a reduction in force (RIF) may be necessary for the 2025-26 school year and directed the superintendent and human-resources staff to work with the licensed employees' association to follow contractual and statutory procedures.

Superintendent Dr. Ludwig asked the board to approve the determination so the district can provide the 90-day notice required by the licensed contract and allow association members time to seek other employment if necessary. "I recommend approval for that tonight so that we can continue forward with our plan," Dr. Ludwig told the board.

The motion does not set a number of positions or name individual roles; board members and district staff emphasized the action authorizes the process and that specific positions will be identified and communicated to affected employees before public notice. Vice Chair Wyatt moved the motion; the board voted to approve following the association contract and ORS procedures.

During public comment earlier in the meeting, multiple residents urged clearer public transparency about administrative reductions versus teacher layoffs and asked that any additional funds be used to retain classroom staff. The superintendent and board acknowledged community concerns and stressed the district will notify affected employees first and continue outreach to seek alternative funding to reduce impacts.