BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — Employees gathered outside the Bakersfield City School District’s board meeting on Tuesday evening as the board faces criticism over a recent vote to raise its own pay while considering cuts to jobs and programs.
A source told Eyewitness News the protest is happening because the board approved a pay bump for itself while cutting other positions and programs.
Last month, the board voted to increase its monthly compensation from $787 to $3,000. Only one member, Chris Cruz-Boone, voted against the increase.
The pay raise is tied to a newly passed state law. Assembly Bill 1390 boosts compensation limits for school board members in large districts. It is the first time those limits have been expanded in more than 40 years.
Comment with Bubbles
BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT
Meanwhile, according to the meeting agenda, the board is set to consider whether to discontinue and eliminate 21 classified positions, including eight bus drivers. The board is also looking to cut pre-K services, citing “a lack of work and/or funds,” which would also reduce the number of pre-K teachers.
This story is developing.