3/23/2011 7:50:00 PMCleveland: Shock settles in over school cuts

March 23, 2011, 7:50 AM

Kim Wheeler, WKYC-TV reporter

CLEVELAND -- As some parents at the Early Childhood Center at Charles Orr dropped off their children today, they had no idea it was on a closure list.  Charles Orr is one of 7 schools proposed to close after this school year. It is part of the district's plan to cut nearly $74 million dollars over the next two years.

Among the cuts would be 835 school employees, including 650 teaches and 135 school employees who retire or leave would not be replaces.

"We are doing a disservice to our children," said Cleveland parent Calista Codougan.

Charles Orr parents said they would hate to see their school close, it is the only one scheduled to close with a continuous improvement rating. "It is a good school, I am shocked," said Tanika Washington.

The district says it plans to cut about $2.5 million dollars from the central office staff, but the teachers union says it should be more. "We should cut central staff first and protect the classroom," says CTU President David Quolke.

The board can first vote on the proposal on April 5.

Go here to watch the video report.