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Phoenix Union Board Votes to Advance 160+ Nonteaching Job Cuts

The 5-1 vote advances a preliminary plan to close a projected $20 million gap driven by steep enrollment losses.

Overview

  • The board approved moving forward with phase one of a reduction in force listing about 167–168 nonteaching positions, roughly 41 of them vacant.
  • The decision followed more than four hours of public comment and passed on a 5-1 vote, with Jeremiah Cota dissenting.
  • District leaders cite a $20 million shortfall for 2026–27 and about $35 million across two years as enrollment has fallen by roughly 3,000 students since 2022.
  • Roles targeted include assistant principals of student success, art content specialists, librarians, health and wellness clinicians, and one safety director position, prompting concerns about campus safety and student supports.
  • Additional, smaller RIF phases are expected in January and February, with changes slated to take effect in June 2026 and some duties redistributed or staff placed in other positions.