WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools is moving forward with major staff reductions as it works to balance a growing budget deficit. This year’s plan eliminates more than 340 positions and reduces terms for hundreds more.

Unlike last year’s smaller, targeted cuts, this round includes demotions, furloughs, and pay reductions of up to 5% for higher-paid staff.

District leaders say spending has outpaced state funding , particularly in central office and Exceptional Children (EC) services. Even after these reductions, officials say the district still provides more support than most peer districts.

Teachers and staff were notified individually, with Human Resources coordinating meetings to explain the changes. Board members emphasized empathy, acknowledging the stress a

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