Trim with future in mind
Suggestions were asked at one of the Spokane Public Schools budget forums I attended, and here are some that could make a difference:
• Take back raises (ranging from 1 percent to 9 percent) voted for the non-bargained-for employees last summer, then cut 3 percent from those salaries.
• Cut out any catering at the administrative building whenever a meeting takes place.
• Go into the classroom, libraries, etc. for one week at all schools, acquire enough knowledge to be able to truly share empathy to those cut.
• Do NOT hire another administrator to oversee budget cuts.
• Cuts in the administration should not be those who are helping with the teaching and learning departments, look in other areas.
You should walk in shoes that aren’t very comfortable for you, but then those affected will know you have an understanding and feel the frustration.
I would also ask the community to step up and continue to be advocates for our future generation, stay educated and informed.
Change is hard but needed. This won’t be fun, clean or even popular, but let’s impact our future and that of our children in the most conservative way.
Jaquelyn Meng
Spokane