Uncertainty Fills The Days For Detroit Teachers

DETROIT (WWJ) - Detroit Teachers are heading in to summer with uncertainty. The school district reportedly has pink-slipped every teacher and a number of administrators pending determination of staffing needs, given an expected further decline in enrollment, and less per-pupil state aid.

Social Studies teacher Khidhir Naeem tells WWJ Newsradio 950 Reporter Mike Campbell that he had not yet 'been served.'

"You have to do the best you possibly can, if you try to do anything else, it will look ugly...if you try anything else it will look ugly. Not sure exactly what their master plan is, but bring your best game, do your ... best and hope it will work out," says Naeem.

"They are saying we will get them,(the layoff notice)," says Naeem.

Naeem says that these periods of employment fluctuation can be an anxious time, and life is lived: 

"In frustration, fear, extremely high in prayer again, and wondering what do they expect us to do with the kids...what do they expect us to do with the kids," says Naeem.

Naeem says in 22 years teaching this would be his fourth pink slip. He says he expects any such first notice will be followed by a call-back letter.

Meantime, he has no plans for any big expenditures, including any vacation.