Milwaukee school board Oks more than 600 job cuts

MILWAUKEE (AP) - The Milwaukee school board has approved a budget that cuts more than 600 positions, hundreds of which would be teachers.

The board on Thursday adopted the administration's proposed $1.3 billion budget for the next fiscal year.

Layoff notices go out next week for many teachers, although the exact number is unclear.

A bargaining unit representing building trades employees, such as painters and plasterers, agreed to accept a lower-cost health care plan. Those 17 workers will see their jobs restored.

President Mike Langyel of the Milwaukee Teachers' Education Association says the union is still asking that the administration bargain with the group.

The school board will adjust the budget in October once enrollment is counted and state aid is finalized.