“The massive federal economic stimulus package hammered out by Congress this week contains about $106 billion earmarked for education, an unprecedented expansion of federal spending into the nation's schools. District officials throughout California, bracing for another round of painful state budget cuts, were grateful for a new infusion of funds.”
(http://www.latimes.com/news/printedition/front/la-me-schools13-2009feb13,0,3775946.story)
I read that, even with this package, Californian school districts still suffer budget cuts resulting unfortunate layoffs. Still I believe it’s a good start.
As soon as my son became a school age, I became involved with his school activities and learned about the pitiful financial state of Californian schools. In my opinion, it is incredible that the State is unable to put aside a sufficient funds for education.
I read a complaint about the national funding going to education instead of business. Feeding business is a temporary and short-term solution, but putting funds to education means better future. Educating our future generation is a long-term solution.
Every year, there are budget cuts and layoffs. It is hard for our children and their teachers. The unknown future and insufficient funds make it very hard for teachers to sustain good moral. The constant shuffling of classrooms creates unstable environment for the students.
I read that there are elementary schools that do not have arts & crafts, PE, and/or music programs. Young children need to be exposed to various subjects to encourage their versatility and creativity. Hands-on projects and physical exercises stimulate and expand our children’s brain and enhance their academic skills.
In my opinion, government’s priority should be our children. Governments (Federal and States) need to provide sufficient funds to education for our children to be happy learners who will grow up to be happy and productive citizens.
Whether they are yours or mine, these children are the ones who shall carry on our society, our countries, and our future. It is essential to provide the best education we can afford to these children. By “education” I don’t mean “feeding them just numbers and words” but “nurturing and encouraging their minds to go beyond the limitation of our generation”. They are the ones who will lead our society. We adults should make earnest efforts to make it possible.
Midori S.
