Erica Popoca, a ninth grade English teacher in Hartford, Connecticut, faced a layoff due to the expiration of COVID-19 relief funds that had covered her salary. Her students, distressed by the news, petitioned the school board to reinstate her. The district eventually found alternative funding and reversed the layoff, allowing Popoca to continue teaching. She is among many educators at risk of losing their jobs as federal relief funds from the American Rescue Plan Act, which provided $189.5 billion to schools, are running out. Districts are now facing budget shortfalls and are forced to cut positions, especially newer staff, including teachers, counselors, and support staff. This trend is particularly problematic in schools serving low-income students, where the loss of diverse, newly hired staff may exacerbate existing inequities.
With COVID-19 Relief Gone, Teachers are Losing their Jobs. It’s a Blow to Diversity
Updated on September 4, 2024