Somerville-based Fayette County Public Schools has put staff on alert that as many as 75 jobs could be cut in the coming weeks, after the district filed a formal WARN notice and outlined plans to complete any reductions by June 30.
District leaders say the potential layoffs are aimed at getting staffing in line with enrollment, academic programs, and overall district needs across both classrooms and central offices, though they have not yet specified which positions will be eliminated.
In a statement to Action News 5, Superintendent Dr. Don McPherson said the notice “includes up to 75 positions” and that the number “reflects the maximum potential impact based on what we know right now.” He added that the district is “working closely with any employees who may be impacted” and promised ongoing communication as decisions are finalized.
What a WARN Notice Means
According to the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development, a WARN filing serves as an advance notice to the state about planned mass layoffs or plant closings. In many cases, it triggers Rapid Response resources for affected workers and typically involves a 60-day notice requirement for qualifying events. The department publishes guidance on what employers must include in a WARN notice and outlines what displaced employees may be eligible for in terms of benefits and re-employment services.
Local Support for Affected Workers
The Greater Memphis Chamber runs the region’s local workforce board and coordinates rapid-response efforts for workers who lose their jobs. Those teams connect displaced employees with training, job-search assistance and benefits counseling. Because the board covers Shelby, Tipton, Fayette, and Lauderdale counties, the chamber is the usual first stop for workforce support when layoffs hit the Somerville area, a role it describes in its administrative materials.
Timeline, Scope, and What to Expect
As reported by Action News 5, the district’s WARN filing describes the layoffs as permanent and states that the process is expected to be complete by June 30. Officials have stressed that the phrase “up to 75” represents a maximum estimate, not a guaranteed number of positions that will ultimately be cut.
School Board Meeting and Next Steps
The district calendar lists a regular school board meeting on May 7, a session where trustees often take up staffing and budget issues. Community members can watch for posted agendas to see whether any formal layoff proposals are slated for discussion. In the meantime, Fayette County Public Schools says it will keep communicating directly with employees who may be affected as the process moves forward.
