LAUSD Debating New School Funding Options
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Los Angeles Unifed School District board members were meeting Tuesday to consider two proposals for future revenue.
The LAUSD is expected to take in millions of dollars from Proposition 30 and the Local Control Funding Formula, which is currently being debated in the state legislature.
A motion penned by board members Bennett Kayser, Richard Vladovic and Steve Zimmer calling for smaller class sizes and full staffing was among the proposals being discussed.
According to board members, class sizes for grades four and higher now average 30 students, compared to 19 in 2007 when budget cuts had yet to be introduced.
The motion is expected to be funded by Prop. 30, which will increase sales tax to aid public schools beginning in the 2014-2015 school year. It also includes a three-year strategy to extend the school year or create a full summer intervention and enrichment program.
However, Superintendent John Deasy would first like to see other programs that were lost in budget cuts resurrected and give raises to current district staff.
"Before we hire additional people, we need to give a raise to the individuals who are working in LAUSD and who have continued to work here through the incredible economic downturn and have gotten great results," he told KNX1070 Monday.
LAUSD Debating New School Funding Options
United Teachers Los Angeles President Warren Fletcher says schools need to be maintained.
"The voters, when they voted to adopt Proposition 30, they were saying they want our schools repaired," Fletcher said.
The second resolution on Tuesday's agenda raises questions about the Local Funding Formula, which is part of the state budget.
Gov. Jerry Brown's plan includes more money for children in the state's neediest school districts. However, board members worry that middle-class schools won't see funding from his program.
The LAUSD will hold an additional meeting at 5 p.m., so working parents can voice their concerns.
