Parents Fight Ann Arbor Public Schools’ Plan to Cut World Language Program

ANN ARBOR, June 10, 2024 ~ The Ann Arbor Public School district’s comprehensive budget plans go too far according to some parents, cutting what some say is a vital elementary world language program.

More than 1,300 people have signed a petition titled Save the AAPS Elementary World Language Program, referring to the district’s plans to shutter world language classes at the elementary level district-wide. Officials say the move will save the district 400,000 dollars as it faces a $25 million deficit, with plans also laid out to cut 141 staff positions, reducing the budget by about $20 million in the coming year. The school board approved the plan in May, with Ann Arbor School officials saying fewer students, inflation, and more hiring led to the deficit.