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D.C. Council Chair Promises Hearing On Teacher Layoffs

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Vincent Gray, chairman of the D.C. Council, wants to hold public oversight hearings on the recent teacher layoffs in the District. Gray says he wants to know how they might negatively affect school children.

According to Gray, the hearing is to review the rationale and impact of the reductions. In a press release, Gray says the layoffs have "alarmed families" and "sent shock waves" through the community.

D.C. Mayor Adrian Fenty and Chancellor Michelle Rhee have said that the layoffs came as the result of budget cuts and new enrollment numbers. Gray says when you include stimulus funds, the school district is funded at last year's levels.

More than 200 teachers received their layoff notices Friday. They will be on paid leave until November 2nd.

Rebecca Blatt reports...

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