I was asked yesterday to make a presentation to the local school board next Wednesday (as part of a formal hearing) to justify on behalf of the local Home and School Association that this board should not cut 1.5 teaching positions from the local school system. I got thinking....this could be a long presentation!
Then I realized, all would be lost in a long and mangled presentation simply stating issues that for the most part are “known” to all. It would be far more effective by focusing on a few of the most important facts and drive the point’s home from my experiences, both professional and personal. When I graduated in the mid 80's, there were 64 teaching staff members and since that, it has been cut to 48 at present. The school board wants to reduce again this year by 1.5 positions. Class sizes have grown to 38 in some cases and less courses are being offered (no music program etc.). How can our children receive the necessary background to excel in college when facing such drastic obstacles? The government needs to “find” adequate funds to sustain vital school programs to ensure these children have the necessary tools to secure good jobs allowing each to provide adequately for themselves after they graduate. On the other hand, the government can continue on the track presently being traveled and sustain through social programs the individuals who 'fall through the cracks.' I feel that this would likely cost more in the end.