The country has been slow to recover from the economic problems of 2007 and 2008. Unemployment remains high. The deficit is out of control. The people with jobs are making less money yet everything costs more.
It is hard to find an institution more hard hit by the recession than our public school system. The average citizen knows that our schools are struggling, but it is doubtful that the average citizen knows just how dire the situation really is. The media often reports teacher layoffs, but the problems in the schools go far beyond just increased class sizes. The already deep cuts have the potential to get even deeper, and even some basic elements of education are at risk.
Desert Sands Unified School District is a perfect example of just how serious things are compared to what they seem. While the district has had to lay off teachers, test scores are still among the highest in the state. The district has also been building new schools and renovating old ones. Parents of students in the district probably think everything is fine. The test scores are good and they have new buildings. Maybe the district will have to drop a few elective programs, but their child will be fine. People without children probably think that issues within the district have no effect on them.
If only it were that simple.
Since 2008, Desert Sands Unified School District has had its revenue reduced by 59 million dollars. They've laid off over 100 teachers, plus eliminated over 50 other positions within the district. In addition, 162 other staff members retired or relocated and were not replaced. Those who kept their jobs have seen their salary reduced and have been forced to take furlough days. They've been forced to eliminate Middle School Sports, High School Transportation, and Supplemental Counselors. The dedicated faculty and staff are doing their best to restructure what they have left to still deliver a quality product.
But the worst may be yet to come.
In December the district will learn if there will be additional cuts that take place THIS school year. These cuts won't just effect elective programs like music and sports, but could cut deep into core services that are part of the educational process. Possible reductions include Elementary Counselors, Maintenance Staff, Classified Staff, and even High School Librarians. Reductions may even force the closure of Elementary and High School Libraries. To top it off, they may be forced to reduce the school year by a week or more.
Even those in the community without children have a vested interest in the success of the school district. Having a strong school system improves the quality of the local workforce. A highly regarded school district attracts skilled and dynamic young employees and entrepreneurs looking for the best schools for their children. Good schools help increase property values and tax revenue. School programs also offer children a chance to be positively engaged, which keeps them off the streets and out of trouble.
So what can be done?
A group of dedicated individuals have established the Desert Sands Educational Foundation. The goal of the foundation is to close the ever-widening gap between what an excellent education costs and what the state funds. Other foundations around California have had success, and the DSUSD Educational Foundation is working to create their own success. Their hard work and determination will make a difference for the students of the district.
If you would like to contribute, you can send your tax deductible donation to:
Desert Sands Educational Foundation
47-950 Dune Palms Road
La Quinta, California 92254
If you like, you may even direct your contribution to a particular school or program.
Every bit helps, and together we can make a difference.
For more information on the Desert Sands Educational Foundation, please visit www.DesertSandsEducationalFoundation.org.
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