In March 2024, the Anaheim United High School District (AUHSD) Board voted to send layoff notices, known as “Reductions in Force” or RIFs, to 253 teachers. This action, which many described as a traumatic experience, is now being revisited as the 2026 election season approaches for the Board.
Community members are raising questions about the Board's actions from two years ago. One board member, now running for re-election, has reportedly reacted in outrage to claims that she voted to send layoff notices to 253 teachers. Records indicate that in March 2024, this board member, along with all her Board colleagues, did vote to initiate these notices.
The initial sending of layoff notices created significant uncertainty for many educators. Over 90 teachers, fearing the loss of their livelihoods, chose to leave the district for more stable positions elsewhere. The remaining teachers, with the help of their union and the support of students, parents, and the wider community, stayed and contested the notices. Hearings were held at Katella High School from late April through late May to determine which teachers would be affected.
Arielle Aguirre, an English teacher at Anaheim High School, described the hearings as “discouraging and disorganized,” noting that district staff seemed unprepared. Aguirre stated that the process felt “demoralizing” and gave the impression that the teachers and community did not matter, reducing years of experience to just a name on a paper.
Ultimately, the RIFs were cancelled. This occurred after it became known that a 4.5% raise for then-Superintendent Mike Matsuda and his “cabinet” was under consideration concurrently with the layoff proceedings. An administrative judge had summoned Matsuda to a hearing, but the RIFs were called off instead.
Critics argue that the entire ordeal was “unnecessary, traumatic, and actually very expensive.” While the district cited decreasing state funding due to declining enrollment, a problem projected to continue for at least five years, other districts facing similar challenges did not resort to mass teacher layoffs. The AUHSD, under Matsuda's leadership, was described as “FAR FROM BROKE,” having $172 million in reserves, which represents 30% of its general fund revenue—significantly above the state’s 3% requirement. Reports indicate the district also added $3 million more to its reserves during this period. Concerns have been raised about district spending on consultants, assistants, and new AI programs.
Instead of pursuing layoffs, the district could have explored alternative solutions, such as reducing class sizes or hiring more counselors, mental health specialists, and security personnel to address issues like bullying and a recent uptick in student suicides. The Board, described as often following the direction of the district administration and its Superintendent, has been criticized for not asking more questions or seeking alternative solutions. As the election approaches, voters will consider these past decisions when choosing new leaders or retaining the incumbents.
