S. Redford Schools Vote to Retain Vocal Music

According to today's Redford Observer the South Redford Board of Education decided to reinstate vocal music at the middle and high school levels, in addition to an arts teacher who also has classes in both grade level buildings. These positions are kept inspite of cutting $2 million from their budget for the 2008 - 2009 school year.

This is a school district that just completed nearly $35 million in renovations, including a new performing arts facility.

Why do these districts spend millions of dollars to renovate schools and then decide they don't have enough funds to hire teachers? I know enough about school financing to realize that the monies are from different "pockets" but let's be realistic here people.

Anyway, kudos to the SR Board of Ed for keeping choir and art at the secondary level!

S. Redford Cuts Update

According to our local newsrag (Redford Observer) the proposed budget cuts for our neighboring school district seem to be heading for approval. I wish them well.

Our district (Redford Union) has been dealing with budget cuts, downsizing, trimming the fat, or whatever you want to call it, for what seems like forever. An editorial headline in the Detroit News tells the Detroit Public School chief to look to the Ford Motor Company to learn how to deal with cuts before it becomes too late. I laugh because I think Ford called Redford Union to see what to do?!

I do remember our union leaders and administrators telling the staff that the problem is greater than the apparent mismanagement of funds, at least in our district. The real problem is school funding from the state. We were told that it wouldn't be long before every district, even the "rich" ones would be affected. I believe that time is here. In addition the souring economy in the state certainly doesn't help the overall picture of school finances.