Durham Public Schools (DPS) is facing significant changes as the Board of Education prepares to vote on a controversial budget that includes cuts to frontline staff. During the recent monthly meeting, it was revealed that the district plans to add 27 new director and supervisor positions while eliminating 9 assistant principal roles and at least 112 teaching positions. This shift has raised concerns among community members about the impact on students and classroom support.

Critics of the budget argue that these cuts will detrimentally affect the educational environment, emphasizing that the increase in administrative positions does not align with the needs of students. One speaker highlighted the disparity between the number of new administrative roles and the cuts to teaching staff, stating, "Schools are losing positions. Students are losing caring adults." This sentiment reflects a broader concern within the Durham community regarding the allocation of resources and the prioritization of administrative roles over direct support for students.

In a positive development, the meeting also marked a significant step forward for lactating teachers and parents in the district. Love Anderson, a former DPS teacher and founder of Breastfeed Durham, expressed gratitude for the district's new support for lactating individuals in schools. This initiative aims to create a more inclusive environment for teachers and parents, acknowledging the challenges they face.

As the Board prepares to make a decision on the budget, the implications of these staffing changes and the support for lactating individuals will be closely watched by the community. The outcome of this vote will not only shape the immediate educational landscape but also reflect the district's commitment to prioritizing student needs and supporting its staff.