Stevenson hosted an informational “town hall” meeting on May 13th to discuss the current budget crisis and what it means for the Burbank Unified School District (BUSD) and for our school. We were joined by speakers Larry Applebaum and Roberta Reynolds of the Board of Education, and Gina Boulais, teacher and parent at Stevenson. PTA Council President Michelle Hurst and longtime Burbank educator Linda Walmsley were in attendance as well. Thanks to everyone who participated.

In summary, the situation is very serious. Burbank has long been recognized for its “good schools,” but they are in grave danger over the next few years if action is not taken quickly. It’s more important than ever to get involved: volunteering at school, actively participating in the PTA and Families For Stevenson (FFS) and working with local representatives to help find solutions and give a stronger voice to our concerns at a state and federal level.

The bad news: The failed ballot initiatives means BUSD’s projected budget gap of $8 million will nearly double. More cuts are already being made. Constraints on federal stimulus money mean that it’s not likely to benefit Stevenson. It’s also doled out by the state, which has been unreliable and usually takes back as much as it gives — a zero-sum gain. The education system and how it’s funded needs a drastic overhaul, but Sacramento will continue to ignore it with bigger problems at hand and a perceived mandate to “cut, cut, cut.” This can only mean more sacrifices and cuts in the years to come.

Already, we know class size for K–3 will rise from 20 to 26 per teacher, grades 4-5 will maintain a 30.5 to 1 ratio, which means there will be at least one “split class” per grade level next year. BUSD budget study and deliberation is starting soon, seeking to approve a budget by June 25.

The good news: Five out of the six permanent teachers who received preliminary pink slips will return. As of May 13th, district-funded elementary level music and P.E. programs will remain intact. BUSD has a fantastic Board of Education with an unusually good working relationship with the teachers’ union and the city. We have a newly-appointed Superintendent, Dr. Kevin Jolly, who has an impressive track record and reputation. http://www.burbank.k12.ca.us/Departments/superintendent/news/Announce.Kevin.Jolly.Web and others.pdf

What can we do?

One idea that was discussed was a Parcel Tax, a small tax added to each parcel of property to fund specific programs such as arts and music, so that other funds are freed to bridge the budget gap. This is being done now in San Marino and South Pasadena, but would require a large grassroots effort to gain the support needed to create and pass a ballot measure.

Get Involved:

• In PTA, FFS, and at school in general.
• Hand write your legislators a personal letter (faxes and emailed form letters don’t really register with law makers).
• Go to Sacramento on June 23rd for the 2nd Annual Children’s Rally: http://wwwcaliforniachildrensrally.com
• Watch a Board of Education meeting in person (June 9th, 5pm at City Hall) or at the BUSD website (http://burbank.granicus.com/ViewPublisher.php?view_id=4) —get to know the people who are making decisions for your children.
• Write a handwritten letter asking the Governor to not take back any monies once Federal monies are given.
• Request a visit with your state legislator. Gather a group. Bring your kids.
• Plan now to be more involved next year.