2010 Commission hears from school leaders regarding academic gains, budget concerns
Today, school leaders from across the state appeared before the 2010 Commission to discuss the results of a recent survey of school districts regarding cuts to personnel and educational concerns and priorities for future years. Specifically, administrators talked about:
- the recommendations made by the 2010 Commission in recent years - their relevance and other topics for consideration,
- the academic progress made with the allocation of resources since the Montoy decision,
- the impact of cuts made by their districts due to reduced funding by the 2009 Legislature, and
- provide recommendations as the 2010 Commission begins to prepare its report to the Legislature.
The hearing started with a presentation by Dale Dennis, KSDE Deputy Commissioner. At the request of the 2010 Commission, KSDE conducted a survey of unified school districts, interlocals and service centers concerning many programs and positions were reduced or eliminated due to a lack of funding of for the 2009-2010 school year. The survey was based on current law.
According to the survey, approximately 3,700 education positions totaling an estimated $167 million have been eliminated for the 2009-2010 school year, to-date. That number includes 2,100 licensed positions (totaling an estimated $73.2 million) and another 1,600 non-licensed positions (totaling an estimated $26.3 million). The survey reported that another $67.7 million in estimated reductions were realized through various programs and initiatives.
Following Mr. Dennis, superintendents from nine school districts testified about the how recent funding had been used to support student learning and the impact of current funding cuts. Administrators highlighted the gains seen in all students, but especially in At-Risk and English Language learners (ELL).
Administrators also encouraged the 2010 Commission to consider the following areas as they prepare their recommendations to the Legislature:
- funding all-day kindergarten and professional development;
- changing the ELL funding formula (from contact hours to head count);
- restoring capital outlay equalization;
- adopting a multi-year funding plan that includes identification of revenue sources; and
- proceeding with caution as they consider changes to catastrophic aid for special education.
Testimony and resources from today's meeting are included below.
