The Louisville Urban League cautiously backs the Jefferson County Schools’ $142M budget cuts, urging focus on equity and monitoring impacts on vulnerable students.
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Louisville Urban League has expressed cautious support for Jefferson County Public Schools Superintendent Brian Yearwood’s proposed $142 million budget reduction plan, praising efforts to protect classroom instruction while urging close attention to equity and student services.
The Urban League released a response regarding the reductions on Sunday.
Yearwood presented the plan during a series of meeting as the district works to close a budget deficit of more than $130 million. The Urban League said it appreciates the superintendent’s student-centered approach, calling the proposal “brave, bold and well-thought out” – particularly its emphasis on preserving direct instruction.
The organization said it generally supports a proposed $44 million cut to central office spending and the elimination of nearly 300 non-instructional positions, which aligns with its call for a slim administration.
However, the Urban League has raised concerns about a $41 million in proposed cuts to supplemental programs, including reductions to academic instructional coaches and other support roles serving high-needs or Choice Zone schools.
The organization will also monitor whether funding reductions, school closure or mergers disproportionately affect low-income students, students with disabilities and students of color.
It also plans to watch how staff from eliminated positions are reassigned and whether said cuts impact transportation, mental health services and special education support.
JCPS said it is reviewing employee compensation, including potential changes to cost-of-living allowances – or COLA – which help staff keep pace with inflation.
Employees who may be affected by possible layoffs or changes will be notified by May 15, 2026.
The Urban League has pledged to continue working with the school district to support student achievement.
The JCPS Board will vote on a draft budget at its meeting on Tuesday.
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