HISD announced job cuts to wraparound specialists dedicated to serving economically disadvantaged students suffering from homelessness and hunger issues after the end of this school year.
The primary reason was the expiration of federal pandemic relief funds (ESSER). According to a virtual meeting reported by the Houston Landing, HISD Executive Director of Student Support Phuong Tieu announced that about 170 district staff positions will be cut at the end of June. The exact number of affected employees remains unclear, and the district has not confirmed the exact numbers.
Tieu also stated that the job cuts had nothing to do with the scope of the work, the work of wraparound, or the position, but the budget situations that the district is experiencing.
The news comes as a blow to many HISD employees in wraparound services. These specialists support students by addressing non-academic needs that could hinder their learning. Wraparound services often include mental health resources, food pantries, and even telehealth medical services. It partners with over 200 community organizations and offers services across 210 campuses.
“Like most school districts in Texas and across the country, HISD is being forced to make some very tough budget decisions for next school year. State funding for education has not increased, and the time-limited emergency aid provided by the federal government to help districts respond to the pandemic is no longer available. This means that in order to meet our students’ needs,” HISD responded in a statement sent to the Defender, “HISD must right-size our central office and find ways to operate more efficiently.”
The statement further emphasizes the district’s commitment to minimizing classroom impact. They aim to “right size” the central administration while protecting teachers and school leaders. This aligns with Superintendent Mike Miles’ previous efforts to prioritize student well-being. Notably, Miles spearheaded the creation of seven “Sunrise Centers” – community hubs offering wraparound services like food pantries and mental health resources.”
Miles said the district will continue to support educators and leaders while keeping budget cuts as far away from children and classrooms as possible. Many central office departments are experiencing a reduction in force, which has happened since January.
Last year, despite facing a significant budget deficit, Miles pledged to maintain wraparound services even as Sunrise Centers rolled out. HISD serves roughly 150,000 economically disadvantaged students and roughly 7,000 who are homeless.
The impacted employees will be notified in the coming weeks. HISD assures them of continued employment in their current positions until the end of the fiscal year on June 30, 2024.
