The ABCUSD School Board presented a preliminary list of possible solutions to the cuts for the 2012-2013 School year. The next school board meeting will be on February 20th where the board will discuss a possible list of solutions and will seek input from the community. It is important that both teachers and community members go to the mic to express their concern over the possible budget solutions being used to cover a 8 million Plan A deficit and an additional 8 million Plan B deficit if the the public does not support the Governors Tax Initiative. There is the possibility of a 18 million dollar cut to the ABC budget which is another $370 per student. There has already been over 30 million dollars in cuts over the last 4 years which have led to larger class sizes, furlough days and health benefit adjustments.
In the meantime, there will be a General Meeting this week for all interested on Thursday February 16th at Haskell Middle School. We will discuss the budget timeline, budget solutions and concerns and we will be listening to the input of those who attend.
I assure you that ABCFT, CSEA, AFSCME and ABCUSD are working together to create an equitable solution for all. The community MUST BE AWARE that it is not business as usual and that the employees of the School District can no longer carry the increasing debt burden with crippling the educational services we now provide to the families of ABC and their children.
In Solidarity!
Ray Gaer
President ABCFT
