Several Long Island school districts have been forced to lay off staff in order to keep tax increases low, which teachers say has been difficult for their kids.

North Babylon art teacher Frank Mele is one of those losing their jobs. His school district is getting rid of more than 30 teachers.

?It's hard seeing them come to me and they have tears in their eyes asking if I'm coming back next year and I have to tell them no,? Mele says.

Parents also say they?re concerned about their children losing well-liked and trusted teachers.

?We've built relationships with these people and I adore them and you don't know what you're going to get [with new teachers],? says mom Beverly Pyatt.

North Babylon Superintendent Dr. Robert Aloise says with fewer students, it makes sense to get rid of some teachers. He adds that without the layoffs, the tax rate residents are voting on Tuesday would be much higher.

The Hempstead School District is getting rid of 48 teachers.