In January 2013 the state's 83rd legislative session will begin. There will be many issues facing our representatives when they convene, and many of these issues will deal directly with public education in Texas. I encourage each of you to educate yourselves about the issues. Don't just rely on the media soundbytes. The decisions that are made in 2013 will have a significant impact upon the future of our children in Texas. Our children deserve a world-class education that prepares them to be successful in the 21st Century.
One of the most significant issues facing the 83rd Legislature is the system of finance for public education in the state. The last session cut funding by $5.4 billion. These cuts had dramatic effects upon school districts across the state, including cuts of approximately $900,000 to the Harleton ISD budget. Here are some key facts about school funding in Texas:
How was Public School funding cut during this biennium by $5.4 Billion?
· Foundation
School Program (FSP) was cut by $4
billion.
· Eliminated funding for property value and ADA decline.
· Other program cuts of $1.4 billion included reducing funding for Pre-K, Student Success
Initiatives, DATE, ESC’s, Instructional Materials, AP Incentives, and
Communities in Schools Programs.
· Technology Allotment Eliminated
· Science Lab Funding Eliminated
Other Facts about Public
School Finance
· In 2009, the State
supplanted $3 Billion in one-time federal stimulus money into the funding for
Public Education, instead of supplementing the Public Education budget. The State never replaced that $3 Billion in
the budget for Public Education. Instead,
they added that money to the “Rainy Day” fund.
· With reduced funding, Texas
will educate an additional 170,000 students during this biennium. Many of them with special needs or language
barriers to overcome.
· Accountability standards
have increased. (STAAR, EOC, AYP)
· Transportation
Allotments have not been adjusted since 1985.
· The majority of school
districts will only be funded at 97% of their WADA. However, we are expected to educate 100% of
our WADA.
· Funding continues to be
below 2010 funding levels and the structural deficit has not been addressed.
· Pre-K is not
funded. Most districts lose money by
offering Pre-K.
The last day of school before the holidays will be December 18. We will have Early Release on December 17 & 18. Semester exams will be given on these dates, as well.
During this Holiday Season I hope that you are able to visit with family and friends and reflect upon the blessings we have all been given. I also hope that you will take the time to learn about the issues facing our state and will let your voices be heard by our representatives. Harleton ISD is a great place for our children to learn. If you don't want Austin dictating how your children should be educated and believe that we should have local control over our schools, please let your local officials know your thoughts. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
