Lee County schools cut 257 teachers amid $46M budget crisis

FORT MYERS, Fla. (WINK)—The Lee County School District gave notice to 457 staff members, including 257 teachers, as it deals with a $46 million budget deficit.

Last week, the Lee County School Board meeting was interrupted as chants of "shame" echoed across the room. Parents, teachers and students have become increasingly vocal as the district cuts staff to deal with the budget shortfall.

"It's difficult to find somebody who hasn't been impacted by this," Kevin Daly said.

The teachers union previously said cuts are across the board, including teachers, administrative staff and assistant principals. The district says lower enrollment, lower property values and rising costs are driving the deficit.

"Decisions were made with the classroom and the students in mind, first," Rob Spicker said.

• RELATED: Lee County parents pack school board meeting over budget cut concerns

The district emphasized that arts and athletics won't be eliminated, though the service delivery for some programs may be different.

"The service delivery for some things may be different, but the programs themselves will continue," Spicker said.

Jason Larkin questioned the district's approach.

"And that's right, you're not cutting the arts or athletics, just the people who run them," Larkin said.

Some of the staff who have been cut could still get a job with the school district. Lee County Schools says it has 122 teacher openings for next school year and encourages folks to apply.