Budget Doublespeak: Less Money, More Change
Teachers in LAUSD kind of dodged a bullet this month, but it will likely ricochet back in ways we will not like. Our school board approved a budget based on the hope that voters will provide more tax money for education. The two tax proposals currently on the table are far from perfect (they are a start!) but they won’t keep us from stoking the fire and finding new ways to point the finger at each other. Is this what the public truly wants? Is this what benefits children most?
First, we have had one-third of our educational force pink-slipped. Over eleven thousand Reduction in Force notices went out this month to various professionals and a teaching body numbering about 33,000. Until LAUSD openly shares budget numbers, why would we subject ourselves to believing such a massive reduction is necessary? Union president Warren Fletcher reported at January’s house of representatives meeting that the state’s budget for us yielded $4,845 per student, while the district’s figures showed $4,638. Mr. Fletcher notes
First, we have had one-third of our educational force pink-slipped. Over eleven thousand Reduction in Force notices went out this month to various professionals and a teaching body numbering about 33,000. Until LAUSD openly shares budget numbers, why would we subject ourselves to believing such a massive reduction is necessary? Union president Warren Fletcher reported at January’s house of representatives meeting that the state’s budget for us yielded $4,845 per student, while the district’s figures showed $4,638. Mr. Fletcher notes
ACT Reminders
From time to time I have the opportunity to participate in various education-related events, and I’m always eager to discuss Accomplished California Teachers. Readers of this blog are likely already familiar with our work as a teacher leadership network for the state, but there are other ways for readers and other interested people to keep up with ACT. Here’s a list of our online outlets, which will also lead you to contact information if you prefer something offline.
Our website
Facebook page
Twitter
YouTube
Ning site - this is our members-only communications platform. If you are a California teacher leader, a teacher
Our website
Facebook page
YouTube
Ning site - this is our members-only communications platform. If you are a California teacher leader, a teacher