Take responsibility, SPS

I have to agree with Sen. Mark Schoesler on teacher layoffs (“Big raises for teachers led to pending cuts,” April 18).

Last year, Spokane Public Schools granted over 13% in raises, Mead 16%. At the time of the raises, SPS was aware this amount would affect their budget. This type of raise is not sustainable, and the ugly fact is now playing out in loss of teachers and staff in our most vulnerable neighborhoods. SPS has devoted much time to childhood trauma and ACE training (Adverse Child Experiences).

Yet the layoffs will affect these children at a much greater rate. 40% of the layoffs (74 of 183) will occur in Hillyard schools. And all the librarians? The drama teacher at North Central? I worry about our focus away from the arts and the creative side of learning. I wonder how we can put such a low value on literacy, knowing reading is key to success. I like the analogy, let’s let classroom teachers teach P.E. too.

It’s time to stop blaming the state and for SPS to take responsibility for their poor decision making a year ago.

I urge my fellow citizens to joint me at the next school board meeting, Wednesday, April 25, at 7 p.m., 200 N. Bernard, to protest this injustice to our children and our community.

Louise Chadez

Spokane