Teacher Cuts, Staff Layoffs, Schools Closed

Florida Economy Sluggish economy forces school officials in Escambia County Florida to slash budget by millions of dollars

by Pat Peterson

Published: Mon, April 21, 2008 - 7:59 pm CST Last Updated: Mon, April 21, 2008 - 8:50 pm CST

15 million dollars. That's what school officials in Escambia County, Florida, say they could cut from their annual budget. The sluggish economy, including the rising cost of fuel, higher food prices and transportation costs, is affecting the entire school district. Eight million of the proposed 15 million dollar budget reduction could come in the form of teacher cuts.

"Unfortunately, it's something we're going to have to do," says Asst. Supt. Ronnie Arnold. "With any business, the majority of our budget is in the form of salaries."

Arnold says some extra-curricular activities, athletic programs and fine arts classes could be slashed. Officials also say several schools could be closed and consolidated because of the budget crisis.

"If that happens, it won't happen until the 2009-2010 budget year," says Arnold.

At a budget hearing Monday afternoon, Supt. Dr. Jim Paul told a packed crowd, mostly teachers and support staff, that things will get worse before they get better.

"I can tell you this," says Paul. "By next August, there will be children in class and there will be teachers on campus, and we'll feed them. But beyond that, I can't promise you anything."

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concerned teacher Says:

Tue, Apr 22, 2008 at 1:54 pm

I am a first grade teacher at Meadowlake Elementary School. I completely understand that the budget cuts are now needed due to the mismanagement of funds by our school board. However, I am appalled at the proposal on the board agenda this evening to eliminate the position of Building Maintenance Engineer. I have taught at three different schools. Meadowlake is one of the oldest, yet the best well kept school that I have seen. As a teacher I witness daily how our maintenance engineer, truly cares about the welfare of our students. He goes above and beyond to make sure our environment is safe and orderly. As a parent I was proud to be bringing my own child to this school next year. I can only imagine the disrepair that this twenty-five year old school would be in if not for his care. I only hope the school board would reconsider this cut. I am sure that if they asked for teachers’ input we would be able to come up witha solution that is less devestating to our students and community