This time last year school districts throughout South Carolina were faced with the daunting task of restructuring their budgets after the previous two years brought a shortfall of $484 million on education. This year showed an estimated 300 jobs lost throughout the classrooms bringing the new figures to a 1,400 positions that have been lost in schools and not filled. Next years proposals forecast greater restraints only this time the job cuts will hit Chesterfield County.

“Up to this date we have not cut anyone because of our financial cuts in the budget. This year we will not be able to maintain that same standard," said Dr. John Williams, Chesterfield County School District superintendent.

The targeted group on the top of the list are the working retirees throughout the district. Martha Rivers,departmental chair for Ninth Grade Academy program at Cheraw High School, is one of the educators classified in that demographic.

“I hate to see any teacher get cut. Experience in the classroom is a big factor in the success of our students. Times are tough right now and the school board has some tough decisions ahead, but everyone who is dealing with job or salary cuts knows how it effects everything," Rivers said.
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