Here in California, we are in the middle of an awful budget crisis. There is a 42 BILLION gap in the budget and Gov. Schwarzenegger and the state legislature (whom cannot agree on anything) are in the throws of cutting funding for lots of programs, one of which is education.
The budget is not set in stone yet, but there's lots of speculation about what is going to happen. Many school districts are already cutting back their programs in order to get ready for what they know is going to happen. Here are a few of the things that could and very well will happen to public schools in California: entire athletics programs might be cut, schools might no longer have counselors, nurses, and programs for kids who need a little extra help. Class sizes could go up over 30, and the school year and/or school day could be shortened. Art and gym and music could no longer be offered. Maintenence workers and custodians' jobs are likely on the chopping block too. (By the way, I get my information on this from the San Jose Mercury News. I really am not making this up.)
I think about this a lot for several reasons. 1. Jenna will be entering Kindergarten next fall and we are still deciding between public and private school. 2. I teach in a public school district.
As a teacher it is not fun to be in my school now. People's jobs are being cut left and right. The rest of us wonder if our jobs are the next to go. My principal comes in my classroom every day and if my numbers aren't real high that particular day, he makes some sort of comment about my numbers needing to be up so I don't lose my job. (How's that for pressure?)
As a parent, I worry about the education my daughters will receive if they go to the public school--certainly not the one I received! I know that my girls would be fine in a public school. Nate and I would support them and be involved. But I can't imagine a school without the opportunity to play sports or music or see a school nurse. I do realize that I am a bit of an education snob, for lack of a better term. I went to excellent schools and want the same for my children. I guess in the end, I'm sad that our state is so bad off that they have to cut such important programs for kids, and I hope that doesn't end up happening.
3 comments:
I feel the same way, Laura. We have been questioning things here and we aren't facing what you are in CA. We grew up with the opportunity to play instruments, where gym was part of the daily routine and where art was encouraged...it's not like that here. We are struggling to find that same opportunity here...at least without having to pay for it out-of-pocket.
Too bad we don't like snow and the in-laws, or else I'd try and make my way back to Lebo somehow...but, we'll be just fine wherever we end up...as long as we supplement what the teachers do in school...
Hey. Laura. I didn't know you were a "blogger"...so am I. Ours is www.hurstfamily4.blogspot.com. It is the best way to see what is going on with us and hearing about our fun life with the twins. Have a great day! I am sure you are enjoying the sun while we are enjoying a snow day today!
Carrie
I see two really big opportunities for prayer here.
1) We can pray for God's guidance over the government of California.
2) (And this is the option I prefer!) We can pray for God to bring you to Texas.
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