Phys Ed The Focus Of Latest PSUSD Cuts

PALM SPRINGS – After months of anticipation, dozens of staff members from Palm Springs Unified learned Fridat they will not have a job next school year, and those who will have a job will work even harder.

“They are going to have more kids in their class and they are already struggling,” says Timothy Walker, a teacher in PSUSD.

In dealing with massive budget cuts, PSUSD is slashing positions and altering programs. Twenty-seven staff members will receive final layoff notices, and physical education class is getting reduced.

“P.E. is important, there are a lot of obese kids,” says Walker.

At Friday’s board meeting, educators presented several cost cutting methods, hoping to save jobs. However, the majority of the board agreed layoffs are the necessary choice. Many of those getting laid off are P.E. teachers.

“I lay the ground roots and teach the students a healthy lifestyle,” says phys ed teacherJody Diez.

Next year, classroom teachers will attempt to teach P.E. in addition to basic education.

“They can’t even fully cover the curriculum they need to and we are added something else,” says Diez.

Teachers will look for creative ways to incorporate activity, aiming for 12 minutes each day and then one longer session each week.

“It’s a disservice to the students and absolutely unreasonable,” says Diez.

Although the board voted in favor of the 27 layoffs, they hope to, once again, rescind as many as possible. They are confident that at least four educators will be able to keep their job.

“I have dedicated 17 years of my career to physical education. I am remaining optimistic,” says Diez.