I have heard a lot of discussion around the budget and it is bringing to light again the divisions between our two programs. It is a sad fact of RCF that our two programs are very divided.
When we work at our best, we as parents come together to advocate for our kids and to build a community.
When we are at our worst, we are a very divided place.
So this post is directed to the English Academy side. We have heard a lot about the cuts facing the immersion program specifically such as busing and resource teachers. But these things matter to you as well and if you live in the neighborhood you should be very very concerned.
1) Instructional materials -- perhaps you didn't realize, and I know I never thought about it until this year, my second as PTA president, but, we as a school have fewer books and other materials because they must be bought in two languages. When the fourth grade buys a set of readers, they must buy two, one in each langauge, effectively reducing the number of books available to kids in each program. So, even though our kids don't benefit from learning in Spanish, we are affected by the program. To cut this budget further is insulting.
2) Busing -- yes, I know, I have heard the arguments about equity. If busing is cut only the parents with resources will be able to drive them here. Here's the other argument. I don't want hundreds of additional cars coming through my neighborhood to drop kids at school. It's a mess as is and if this goes through, I think neighbors will wake up in August to a real traffic jam.
These are but two examples of the ways these budget cuts will impact us all. Take some time and sign on to the petition, the link is to the right. Then write a letter, make a phone call and stay informed.
Friday, January 22, 2010
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