Union Schools outlines proposed budget cuts

State budget cuts have hit home for many schools in Green Country. Now Union schools are bracing for a 10% across-the-board cut next year that will affect staff and programs. <br><br>Union's Superintendent

Tuesday, March 11th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

State budget cuts have hit home for many schools in Green Country. Now Union schools are bracing for a 10% across-the-board cut next year that will affect staff and programs.

Union's Superintendent Doctor Cathy Burden laid it all out in the open for educators Monday night in hopes of possible solutions. Union had a budget reserve. But most of it was used to offset $5-million in cuts over the past two years.

Most programs were insulated from state shortfalls. But that may not be the case anymore. The district is preparing to cut about 100 positions and 60 teachers, mostly through early retirement. Temporary workers, like Jennifer Pazzo, are being notified they won't be back next year. â€œWell I knew it would be coming to this. I knew in the back of my mind with all the cuts with the legislature but hearing the superintendent say it, it really hit home."

Union is also looking at slashing $500,000 in spending, from special programs, like art and drama. Class sizes are also expected to increase.