It's not something you'd like to find in your mailbox at the end of the day, but it's exactly what was waiting for 120 Lansing School District employees.

"It's not a pleasant activity but it's a necessary activity." said superintendent T.C. Wallace.

Layoff notices, the largest amount in years. That's because district administrators aren't sure how much money will be available next year. A lot will depend on student enrollment and per pupil state funding....something Wallace says makes planning a nightmare.

"It's not fair to teachers. It's not fair to parents. It's not fair to students."

But it's become common practice in Lansing. Last year, the district laid off 86 employees before calling back 48. Wallace believes many will be back this year too.

"We will recall those individuals."

When they do so is the issue.

Lansing faculty and staff may not know whether or not they have a job until August or even September. It's that time and uncertainty that has some teachers looking to other districts and perhaps even leaving the state.

"They should be looking elsewhere," said teacher union president Jerry Swartz.

He says many can't afford to wait around in a struggling Michigan economy.

"They do have families. They do have concerns they'll have to take care of on their own home front."

Now the challenge turns to getting back as many staff members as possible. Wallace says they'll be in constant contact with lawmakers to get a better grasp on funding. But until those numbers are in, many teachers will be checking the classifieds.