Since Gov. Schwarzenegger presented his 2008 – 2009 state budget, his “Year of Education” has turned into a year of painful, across-the-board cuts for public education.
The School District faces a projected $3.5 million gap of which $2.7 million is a direct result of the Governor’s proposed budget.
The School Board started addressing this gap by making cuts approaching $ 2.2 million in 33 areas on Feb 26.
Clearly, more work needs to be done to prepare for next year.
We have opposed the Governor’s budget and requested adequate funding for public education. Our reasons included the following facts.
California is falling to the bottom in the nation regarding per-pupil funding. California now ranks 46th and spends $1,900 less per student than the national average
California public schools have the most Byzantine, difficult to understand budget process in either the public or private sector. We’re acutely aware that the governing boards of schools have virtually no discretionary funds.
California voters approved and supported Prop. 98 to protect students and schools from harmful budget cuts.
We want the best programs, teachers, administrators and support staff for our schools.
We need more, not less, to educate our students. And the Governor’s proposed budget gives us less — over $800 per student less.
As our state legislators work on next year’s budget, please share your support for public education and anger over potential cuts. Culver City’s representatives are State Senator Mark Ridley-Thomas and Assembly Speaker designee Karen Bass.
If you need additional information or even sample letters, then please feel free to contact us through the School District website (www.ccusd.k12.ca.us) or by calling the School District office (310.842.4220).
cc Honorable Mark Ridley-Thomas
700 State Dr., Los Angeles 90037
Fax: 213.745.6722
cc Honorable Karen Bass, Assembly Speaker Designee
5750 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 565, Los Angeles 90036
Fax: 323.937.3466
