Proposed Teacher Layoffs Prompt Student Response

A group of Northport High School students has organized to oppose the layoff of two art teachers.

The two are among 18 teachers throughout Northport-East Northport school district facing possible layoffs as a result of decreased student enrollment.

Nicolas Bruno, a 2011 graduate and professional photographer, organized the campaign earlier this month when he became aware that his mentor is on the chopping block.

"These teachers have influenced the many artists and brilliant minds that have stepped out the doors of Northport High School," Bruno said, "and they are ready to get rid of them at the drop of a hat."

The students have set up a Facebook page, written letters to the board of education and administration, and circulated a petition among parents and students. Their Facebook page has garnered 190 likes as of Wednesday.

Junior Callie Spiros was among a group of students that addressed the Northport BOE last week.

"The school is saying that they're not cutting any programs," she said, "but I think what the BOE doesn't realize is that, by cutting these two teachers, you are cutting certain aspects of the program because the classes in the art department are shaped by the teachers and how the teachers design their classroom."

Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Dr. Tom Caramore said declining enrollment means that all classes will continue to be offered, albeit with fewer sections, through "co-seating."

Digital design and website design, for example, have nine students each and would be combined in one classroom with one teacher.

"The teacher would teach each of the classes within that period," he said. "They're close enough, they're both computer classes."

Bruno said part of his group's mission is to encourage more students to sign up for art classes next year.

"It all comes down to numbers, and we need kids to sign up for art," Bruno said.

The board of education will vote on the proposed layoffs at their next meeting on May 13 at 7 p.m.