The meeting began with the LHS student council president and principal talking about their lip dub. They talked about how amazing it was that even in this time of budget craziness, they were able to make this wonderful video as a whole school, and for an hour they could all just have a good time and enjoy one other’s company. After explaining the video-making process, they showed the final product.
Then, they addressed the topic on everyone’s mind: the budget. The members of the board said the district needs to fill a 5 million dollar gap. Each member of the board went up to the podium and expressed their opinions and ideas about solving this crisis.
One woman suggested increasing student fees and cutting Learning Coaches in order to save important programs such as 6th grade band.
Other members of the board said even though they don’t want to cut elementary schools, the money has to come from somewhere, and these cuts could save more teachers’ jobs at other schools.
Additionally, if elementary schools were consolidated, the empty buildings could be sold and that money could go into the five million dollar hole.
Increasing classroom size by two students and cutting one administrative position between the two high schools were additional solutions discussed.
Next, they went into deeper conversation about the arts and athletics programs. High school sports need to have fewer games, and they need to cut travel a little. They also talked about choir and how they love All City concerts and they’re important but hard to get.
The most important thing on the board’s mind right now is to do what they need, but make sure they are still giving the children the education they deserve.
