Teachers' pink slips rescinded in Lincoln

LINCOLN - Lincoln teachers who were facing an uncertain future are breathing easier this week.

The School Committee voted 4-0 Monday to rescind layoff notices sent to 60 teachers. All but two teachers are coming back in the fall.

"Union leaders and administration worked very, very closely in an effort to achieve this feat," said Superintendent Georgia Fortunato.

"We're fortunate this year," said the superintendent, adding that she doesn't know what will happen next year.

Still, school officials warn that, while teachers' jobs were saved, the school district still needs to be fiscally responsible.

With the current fiscal climate, the school district may have to go without some things such as school supplies and attendance at conferences.

According to Fortunato, programming and staffing is what is important in Lincoln.

Lori De Simone, vice president of the elementary teachers' union, attended the meeting and praised the administration for looking for "creative ways" to bring back as many teachers as possible.

About 10 teachers were in attendance at the meeting and waited patiently to learn their fate.

The 8:30 meeting was delayed 15 minutes. With the arrival of School Committee member Julie Zito, the meeting began. The seven-member School Committee needs four members in attendance to reach a quorum.

Also in attendance on Monday were Chairwoman Elizabeth Black Robson, Vice Chairwoman Kristine Donabedian and Mary Anne Roll.