Teacher urges Gresham-Barlow board to protect special-education staffing amid budget concerns

Catherine Unger, a fourth‑grade teacher at Hall Elementary and safety-and-discipline chair for the GBA, told the Gresham‑Barlow School Board on March 5 that teachers perform many roles beyond instruction and urged the board to protect special‑education staffing as the district navigates a “bleak financial outlook.”

"Tonight, I urge you to reject any budget proposal that may cuts the special education staffing," Unger said, describing special‑education teachers as “dedicated and tireless advocates” who manage individualized education programs and coordinate with multiple service providers.

Matt Wallace, speaking for the GBA, echoed Unger’s message and asked the board to “carefully weigh the consequences of any proposal that reduces special education staffing and support,” noting negotiated protections such as caseload limits and overtime pay that the association views as important for sustainable learning environments.

Board members accepted Unger’s written remarks for distribution in the public record. Superintendent Tracy Klinger acknowledged the district’s difficult budget environment and said district leaders are continuing advocacy and engagement to address funding shortfalls.

The board did not take action at the meeting on any specific personnel cuts; members noted budget development is ongoing and that community input (more than 900 survey responses) will inform priorities and proposed reductions. The superintendent and association representatives signaled continued bargaining and review of potential options as the process moves forward.