Teachers and staff at Kathleen MacDonald High School are facing growing concerns as districtwide budget cutbacks raise the risk of potential layoffs. This situation comes as school districts across San Jose and Santa Clara County deal with declining enrollment and reduced funding. This has forced the school to make difficult budget decisions that directly affect classrooms and school communities.
At a recent district board meeting, students from Kathleen MacDonald High School joined Santa Clara University, Wilcox High School, New Valley High School and others from across the district to voice their support for teachers whose jobs may be at risk. The meeting lasted several hours and drew a large turnout, and many students were unable to enter the room because there was limited space, and they instead watched remotely.
“I think students have already been really encouraged to fight for their teachers’ livelihoods and are stubborn to allow this injustice from happening,” said Arjun Bhandary, a student who attended and spoke at the public meeting. “There were at least 50 of us students inside, and even then not everybody was allowed in. We waited there for five to six hours.”
According to Bhandary, the strong student presence showed that solidarity was not lacking. He added that teachers who spoke directly and clearly to the board helped motivate both students and viewers at home.
“I know this is not the end of this fight and that we will keep going until a just verdict is given,” he said.
The proposed layoffs are part of broader efforts by local districts to close budget gaps because of lower student enrollment and rising operational costs. Because state funding is tied closely to attendance, fewer students mean less money for schools. This often leads districts to reduce staff; one of their largest expenses. Teachers and families raised concerns that these cuts could weaken academic support and harm student well being, as students may receive less guidance, fewer resources, and weaker academic backbone.
Student leaders say continued protests will be key in the coming weeks. Joey Depew, a member of the school’s leadership group, emphasized the importance of staying vocal and visible.
“We saw a great turnout at the district meeting last week in support of our teachers,” Depew said. “Speaking directly to the board and looking them in the eye will be our greatest impact as students.”
Depew encouraged students to keep the conversation going beyond meetings.
“The most important thing we can do as students is to keep talking about it. Bring it up to your parents, families, and peers,” he said. He also urged students to contact board members directly through email in order to ensure their concerns are heard.
As discussions continue and more meetings are expected, teachers at Kathleen MacDonald High School remain at the center of a rising wave of community support. Students say they are committed to standing with their educators and making sure their voices remain part of the decision making process.
