One of the most important issues facing our Texas public schools today is school funding. The 82nd Legislature cut $5.4 billion from public schools during the last legislative session while the state's student enrollment grew by approximately 160,000 students. At the same time, the state imposed a more rigorous and demanding accountability system. Reluctantly, many school districts were forced to sue the state due to the inequitable and inefficient funding system.
The trial began on October 22. It is expected to last until January or February of 2013. In the meantime, the 83rd Legislature will begin its session in January 2013. All indications are that the legislature will have more money than anticipated. Please call on your representatives to restore the funding cuts to public education. This still does not fund the student enrollment growth, but it is a step in the right direction. I will try to keep you informed as this trial progresses.
