As the legislature continues to try to find ways to slash the budget, many teachers are nervous to find out if their job is the next “budget cut”. More than 100, 000 teachers are likely to lose their jobs if the budget crisis continues as it is. Who is responsible? What can be done to fix this?
Governor Rick Perry says that it isn't his fault. Nor is it the state's fault. According to Mr. Perry, the choice to lay off teachers is up to the local school boards. In theory, this is true, but what about their choice to do away with the law that limits the amount of students per class for grades K-4? This leaves less need for teachers, and allowing many to be laid off.
There are alternatives to laying off teachers, even at the school district level. One simple fix is pay cuts. Many people would be affected by pay cuts, of course, but it would certainly be less drastic than losing your job completely. And there is always the option of doing away with sports activities as well. Sports are “extra curricular” and should be treated that way. Sporting events should not be the main focus of a school district. Between new uniforms and gear, to the higher pay of the coaches and athletic directors, this would be one viable option that could save so much money.
Texas could also do away with frivolous state funded programs and entitlements, as well as limit the amount of time a person is allowed on government assistance programs. Assistance should be just that, a way to get ahead when you are struggling, not something that is life long.
The legislature has decided to dip into the “rainy day” fund to a tune of about 3 billion dollars, to balance this years budget. This money will not be touched for subsequent years budget deficits.
Education should be a main priority. Many districts are already struggling to find good teachers, but to put the ones that are good at risk of losing their jobs is not logical.
No comments:
Post a Comment