La Mesa, California – In a tense and emotionally charged meeting Thursday night, the Grossmont Union High School District Board of Education voted 4-1 to approve the layoffs of 58 staff members , sparking outrage from students, teachers, and community members. The decision, months in the making, brings sweeping cuts across the district, including 10 assistant or vice principals, nine librarians, eight English teachers, and several counselors, psychologists, and special education staff.
The vote came after a series of impassioned board meetings and protests, with hundreds turning out once again Thursday night to rally, plead, and perform in support of their teachers. Outside Grossmont High School’s theater, students danced and music played in a final show of solidarity before the board’s fateful decision. For many, the layoffs felt deeply personal.
“It’s like a funeral right now in the arts program,” said sophomore Toby Mishler, referencing the imminent layoff of dance teacher Caryn Ipapo-Glass…