Bloomberg Goes After Teachers
February 17th, 2011
In what some have cast politics at play, Mayor Michael Bloomberg is expected to announce the reduction of 6,166 teaching positions, three-quarters of which would be through layoffs, in his preliminary budget this afternoon.
Some have said the move was made with merit firing in mind — a proposal the mayor has been pushing for in Albany. Bloomberg hopes to get rid of teachers based on their success with students not seniority. To repeal “last in, first out,” the mayor would need approval from the State Legislature.
The head of the United Federation of Teachers, Michael Mulgrew, told the Times: “I don’t understand why the mayor continues to be talking about teacher layoffs,” Mr. Mulgrew said. “This is all a politically bogus game on their behalf.”
The threat comes as the city announces $2 billion in unexpected tax revenue. That revenue makes up for anticipated cuts from the state and federal government.
We’ll be following the story all day, so be sure to check back for updates.
The mayor’s budget presentation begins at noon.
By Courtney Gross on February 17, 2011, 11:08 amIn category: Albany,City Hall,Economy,Education,Electoral Politics,Gotham City,Governing,Law,Measuring UP,nextNY,Public Finance | Comments Off on Bloomberg Goes After Teachers