CSEA urges board to reconsider staffing vote, says RIF could affect 61.5% of staff

A representative from the California School Employees Association addressed the board during constituency reports to raise concerns about a recent vote on a proposed reduction in force (RIF).

Donna Howard (CSEA) told trustees that the recent board action could affect 61.5% of Calbright staff and that only three board members participated in the vote. She urged fuller participation, more thorough public discussion and transparency about decisions that affect staff livelihoods and institutional stability.

"I'm sharing my serious concern about the recent board vote on the proposed reduction in force that could affect 61.5% of Calbright staff," Howard said. She asked whether the low turnout was an oversight and why important votes had been taken in executive session rather than before the full board.

Howard said she had provided the board with a union-created organizational chart mirroring a RIF list and asked trustees to review the material to understand ramifications for student supports. Trustees acknowledged the comment; the transcript shows no live board action reversing the prior vote during this meeting.

The union speaker asked for greater board engagement and transparency on decisions with major consequences for staff and students.