Broward Schools Cut 300 Jobs, Impact Allapattah Families

The Broward County School Board voted late Monday to slash approximately 300 filled jobs and eliminate 700 vacant positions district-wide, according to a district document provided by spokesman John Sullivan. The cuts target 11 elementary school counselors, 17 exceptional student education counselors, 16 social workers, 21 clerical support assistants, 40 district management roles, and 53 non-teaching positions tied to schools closing for the 2026-27 year. In Allapattah, where schools like Allapattah Flats K-8 face enrollment pressures near NW 12th Avenue and 36th Street, families worry about reduced counseling and support services amid the district's 'right-sizing' push. Superintendent Howard Hepburn announced the notifications Wednesday, fulfilling the board's directive to cut 1,000 jobs annually for three years due to years of declining enrollment. The plan saves about $41.3 million from 809 positions, part of broader efforts including school closures and hiring freezes aiming for $75 million in net savings against an $80-90 million deficit, per district statements. Allapattah parents, active at recent community meetings at the school's cafeteria on NW 29th Street, have voiced concerns over class sizes and mental health support cuts. These reductions mark Broward Schools' first major layoffs in 20 years, as enrollment drops exacerbate funding shortfalls under Florida's per-pupil formula. District records show total eliminations reaching 856 positions, mostly unfilled. Local leaders, including Miami Commissioner Joe Carollo, who represents bordering areas, urged coordination at a recent Little Havana meeting, noting impacts on Allapattah's 60% Hispanic student population reliant on social workers. The layoffs coincide with Florida's cost-of-living strains, as gas prices dip to $4.40 statewide but federal tariffs threaten higher goods costs. In South Florida, an 11,000-acre Everglades wildfire worsens air quality—Allapattah residents should check AirNow.gov for AQI updates and limit outdoor activities if unhealthy (AQI 151+). Superintendent Hepburn's office plans town halls at sites like Dorsey Park on NW 19th Avenue to address community fallout.