Big budget cuts are forcing big changes at local schools. Last week it was announced Tulsa Public Schools would face a $2.5 million shortfall.
Possible cuts include eliminating substitute teachers and nonessentials such as field trips, a hiring freeze, and furlough days for 12 month employees.
Teachers and staff were told to act immediately to cut costs.
"We got an e-mail from Dr. Ballard that said this is drastic start now, and we are." said Principal Cindi Hemm.
At Eugene Field Elementary the morning started with a change in temperature.
Part of cutting back is changing the thermostat from 72 degrees to 68 degrees.
"It's gonna be a little cold. Heard a little complaining with the staff but I give them a sweater and say here you go." said Principal Hemm.
Part-time hours have been cut at many school locations across the district and substitute teachers could be next.
"We will be splitting up classes and putting them with other teachers so class sizes will grow." said Hemm.
Teachers aren't happy with the idea of larger classes. Currently most classes at Eugene Field Elementary are 20 to 22 students. If substitutes are eliminated class size would grow to around 30 students.
"I'm able to give them very little one on one time as it stands right now so if that changes at all it will affect how much these kids learn on a day to day basis." said 1st grade teacher Tim Wilson.
Since friday, 6 vacant custodial positions with TPS have been eliminated. Due to a hiring freeze, those positions will not be filled anytime soon and individual schools will have to pick up the slack.
"If students aren't getting custodial services restrooms aren't cleaned floors aren't swept it affects the learning environment." said Custodial Supervisor, Katie O'Ferrall.
Teachers at Eugene Field have been asked to put all chairs on top of desks at the end of the day and leave trash by the door to make custodial duties easier on the limited staff.
"We have to get creative and figure out how to give the same service with less hours and less folks." said O'Ferrall.
In an interview with 2News Anchor Deana Silk Monday, Superintendent Dr. Keith Ballard said the children are his main priority and the district is doing all it can to avoid a direct impact.
His next step is possible furloughs for employees other than teachers.
"We're working on a plan for (furloughs) to do 3 to 5 days we can save about $130,000 a day if do that." said Dr. Ballard.
The State Board of Education will meet Tuesday morning in OKC. The agenda includes discussion and possible action on the Fiscal 2011 Budget Request.
