School District Budget
Today City Council is scheduled to take a look at the Philadelphia School District's budget. Last year at this time, the District was running a $181 million deficit. They've carved that down but the district still faces a projected deficit of $38.9 million next year. Parents and education activists still have plenty of concerns.
By Elizabeth Fiedler
 Listen Now [1 minute 6 seconds]
WHYY News, April 28, 2008
Today's hearings are expected to dredge up a number of issues including providing students with mass transportation passes, reducing class sizes, and hiring and training teachers to help Latino students and parents.
"We are a little concerned that there is a $100,000 transition program which is paying 'experts' to evaluate the School District," said Aissia Richardson a member of Parents United for Public Education.
"Every little bit does help to make sure that the district is putting all of its resources into the classrooms where we need it the most."
Richardson said she was glad to see that money for art and music education had been put back in the budget. But she explained that that the schools really need more money in general.
Incoming School District CEO Arlene Ackerman took a measured approach.
"I don't think we should ask for any more money until we learn to live within our means and we have to close this deficit and make sure that the public understands that we're good stewards of the public funds," said Ackerman."
Many education advocates are waiting to see whether Governor Ed Rendell's proposed budget passes. It would give Philadelphia schools a 10% boost in funding.
Additional Information
It's Our Money Blog: Doing the Math for the School District
Daily News Editorial: DO THE MATH, SCHOOL DISTRICT
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