March 15 was the day that Caesar was murdered (at least in the Shakespeare play). It's also the day by which school districts have to notify teachers they intend to lay off when the new school year begins in the fall.
Expect to see a veritable hurricane of layoff letters landing with teachers. This isn't good news, and some teachers will be laid off. But it shouldn't induce panic. Districts have a long history of using the letters to warn teachers and create public alarm. But they don't always follow through with firing instructors. The notices can be rescinded by May 15.
With Gov. Jerry Brown seeking tax extensions in part to forestall education cuts, the March 15 notices may serve a political purpose, rallying the public to the cause of extending tax increases in order to save teachers' jobs.
California Watch has more details here.
