Maricopa Teachers Face Uncertainty as Sequoia Pathway Announces Layoffs

Today marked the final day of employment for several teachers at Sequoia Pathway Academy in Maricopa. School officials confirmed that the layoffs primarily impacted positions in physical education, paraprofessional roles, and the school nursing staff.

An email from Edkey, Inc., Sequoia Pathway’s parent company, informed educators: “Dear Employee, we regret to inform you that, because of a company-wide workforce reduction, your position at Edkey, Inc. will be eliminated. Your employment will officially end at the close of the workday February 14, 2025.”

One impacted educator, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed uncertainty about their future. “I believe these layoffs … were made based on favoritism and not on merit and what would benefit the school as a whole,” they stated, voicing concerns for the mental health of students now lacking trusted adults in their environment.

The layoffs are part of a broader reduction affecting 15% of Edkey’s workforce, a decision announced on February 7. Dr. Yovhane Metcalfe, COO of Edkey, sought to reassure parents, indicating that the changes would not disrupt student learning, with average class sizes remaining around 24 students.

“Based on enrollment levels and student needs at each campus, our school leaders have redesigned their staffing plans to ensure there is no disruption to your child’s daily instruction,” Dr. Metcalfe elaborated. She emphasized a commitment to high-quality educational experiences and called the layoffs a necessary step to adjust to current enrollment.

These layoffs follow a series of challenges facing the charter school system, including lawsuits, complaints lodged with the Arizona Attorney General’s Office, and ongoing financial difficulties.