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More than half of 457 layoffs in Lee County schools will be teachers — 275 get notices
By Dayna Harpster
May 20, 2026 at 5:42 PM EDT
Facing a $46.7 million budget deficit, the Lee County School District has informed 457 employees that their contracts would not be renewed for the next school year. Of those, 275 are teachers.
In addition, 407 teachers will be lost next year due to attrition — meaning retirements, resignations, performance and certification-related departures.
In a press release, the district said it expects some of the non-renewed positions to be preserved or reallocated in the coming weeks. As many as 122 vacant teaching positions have been identified for 2026-2027.
Previous coverage on Lee County school budget cuts:
In addition, 407 teachers will be lost next year due to attrition — meaning retirements, resignations, performance and certification-related departures.
In a press release, the district said it expects some of the non-renewed positions to be preserved or reallocated in the coming weeks. As many as 122 vacant teaching positions have been identified for 2026-2027.
Previous coverage on Lee County school budget cuts:
- Cuts to Lee County school budgets prompt a protest at district offices
- Budget cuts prompt packed room at Lee County school board meeting
- Lee superintendent defends budget cuts, says new era for school system
- Buckingham to Royal Palm school move put on hold for now, Lee County District says