Hundreds of Durham teachers may lose jobs

DURHAM The superintendent's plan calls for cutting about 400 jobs, including more than 250 teaching positions. Leaders say cuts are necessary because of a nearly $18 million shortfall projected next school year.

Board members expressed concern that the plan would shortchange children.

"You can delay a roof, you can delay replacing a bus, but you cannot delay a child's third grade education," said Steve Martin, Durham Board of Education. "You only have one year."

The board will hold a work session and a public hearing next week.