SNOHOMISH — The Snohomish school board has approved sending up to 41 layoff notices to teachers and delaying construction of the aquatic center.
This week, the board unanimously passed two measures that aimed to prepare the district for an expected loss of state funding.
Originally, o
nly 37 positions were in danger. Four more positions were added this week after the district learned of potential cuts in alternative learning programs, spokeswoman Kristin Foley said.
The layoffs are part of a $4.6 million reduction in spending for the next school year, which begins this fall.
Some of these positions could be saved if student enrollment increases or the Legislature restores funding. The board, however, has a May 15 deadline to send layoffs notices.
The board also approved the superintendent’s decision to suspend work on the 46,000-square-foot aquatic center.
Superintendent Bill Mester ordered the district last week to stop work on the center after an analysis said it could cost $450,000 or more each year to operate than it would generate in revenue.
School officials are meeting with consultants to put the center in the black.
Construction of the center was planned to start this summer and be open in fall 2012. The building was a key piece of a $268 million bond approved by voters two years ago.
Alejandro Dominguez: 425-339-3422; adominguez@heraldnet.com.
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