How do we make it happen?
There are two ways:
- The Taxation and Budget Reform Commission ("TBRC") is a constitutionally commissioned group which “shall examine the state budgetary process, the revenue needs and expenditure processes of the state, the appropriateness of the tax structure of the state, and governmental productivity and efficiency…” They will probably conclude their work by spring 2008. TIME IS SHORT. They can “make it happen” one way or the other, but they need to hear from YOU that this is important. Contact information.
- The State Legislature can make it happen. However, education has been seen as “off limits” for politicians. They are simply afraid of the educational lobby and the backlash from the teachers. As a group, teachers believe that there is not enough money for education.
What many teachers do not understand is the huge amount of money that is spent in the school districts. See "Where does the money go?" There is more than enough, but a huge portion is being spent to fund new classrooms and a sizable portion is being spent as overhead in the county office rather than in the classroom.
When teachers understand that the reinvention would focus resources in the classroom and that, other than the children, they would be the biggest beneficiaries of this process, they should be excited. Teachers would be a major resource for this task force. They are where “the action is”.
Teachers would be so very important in identifying the onerous mandates and non educational issues which keep them from teaching and the students from learning. Their voices would be heard and their input would be invaluable. Action Required »
Taxpayers must also make their voices heard. Action Required »