State Budget Cuts Threaten Schools’ Progress

Dec 3, 2009

Over each of the last five years, student test scores have improved at Pasadena Unified School District’s (PUSD) public schools.

These dramatic improvements are the result of many factors, including outstanding teachers, small class sizes, challenging programs and assistance for students struggling with the basics.

Deep state funding reductions threaten to erase this progress.

Pasadena schools have already absorbed a $31 million reduction in state funding. Over the next two years further state funding cuts are expected to force PUSD to cut at least $20 million—an amount equivalent to over 270 teachers or a quarter of the teaching staff.

Funding reductions of this magnitude will require deep cuts that will impact every classroom, including:

  • Laying off 100 or more teachers
  • Increasing class sizes
  • Closing neighborhood schools
  • Cutting advanced instruction in math, science and technology
  • Reducing security at school campuses
  • Closing school libraries
  • Reducing or eliminating art and music education
  • Cutting career and technical training that prepare students for the workforce
  • Cutting advanced placement and college prep courses that help students get into college
  • Reducing student health services

Please tell us what you think.

Our local school board is evaluating possible cuts and options for bringing additional funds to our schools. One option is to ask voters to approve temporary supplemental funding for retaining quality teachers, keeping class sizes small and maintaining essential educational programs.

As we weigh the options we want to know what you think.  Please e-mail us at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address). Thank you for your time and input.