Nearly 75% of Alabama Public Schools Cut Jobs Over Summer

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. (AP) - A survey by the American Association of
School Administrators shows that three-quarters of public schools
in Alabama lost jobs during the summer, with more cuts expected
next year.
    A survey of 42 Alabama superintendents shows the cuts have been
heaviest for classroom aides and among teachers of core subjects
such as English and math.
    Just over half of the administrators cut teaching positions in
core subjects, and 63 percent cut the number of aides. Meanwhile,
21 percent cut the number of art or gym teachers, 8 percent cut
special education teachers and 7 percent trimmed the number of
school librarians.
    The study found a similar pattern across the country. Two-thirds
of school administrators surveyed nationally reported cutting jobs
this year, and 83 percent anticipate more reductions next year.