Layoffs have begun at the Texas Education Agency as legislators face a projected $15 billion shortfall in the next two-year budget.
TEA officials have declined to say how many of the agency's more than 1,000 workers were given pink slips. Some employees were seen Tuesday removing their personal belongings from the TEA's main office complex in Austin.
Education Commissioner Robert Scott said, based on anticipated budget reductions, the TEA has taken steps to reduce the size of the agency. Scott said the TEA will continue with its mission to serve school districts and students.
TEA spokeswoman Debbie Ratcliffe said exact numbers on how many TEA workers lost their jobs will be released later.
Copyright AP - Associated Press
