At Forest Grove School District Budget Committee meeting, speakers plead for programs to be spared when budget ax falls (18th Article)

Kelly House

"At Forest Grove School District Budget Committee meeting, speakers plead for programs to be spared when budget ax falls"

The Oregonian
April 08, 2011
URL: http://www.oregonlive.com/forest-grove/index.ssf/2011/04/at_forest_grove_school_district_budget_committee_meeting_supporters_plead_for_programs_to_be_spared.html

Summary: More than 60 community members sat in the audience at the first Forest Grove School District’s first budget meeting Thursday evening, providing a glimpse at the groups whose interests are at stake as school officials seek to cut millions from the district’s budget. A large contingent from Gales Creek Elementary School showed up wearing the red shirts that have symbolized their support for the small rural school at recent school board meetings. One by one, parents, students and district employees stepped up to a microphone to advocate for the programs and facilities near to their hearts. With the latest projections pinning statewide K-12 education funding at $5.7 billion, Forest Grove would face a deficit of $7.5 million in the 2011-12 school year.The budget committee will meet again on April 14, with another opportunity for public comment.

Intended audience: All readers

Key Points: 1. In a meeting that lasted just over 35 minutes, more than a dozen community members approached the board with prepared statements.

2. They have, however, said layoffs and program cuts will be unavoidable.

Relevance: It is good to get ready before the budget comes. Listen to students and parents what their flavors are is helpful to decided which programs could stay.