School Cuts in Menlo Park, California

In an attempt to compensate for a projected $2.02 million deficit next year and a $2.85 million deficit in the 2011-2012 school year, Menlo Park City School District in California may layoff as many as 8 teachers and create multi-grade level classes. The cuts will also negatively impact art, physical education and Spanish programs.

A reduction in state funding, ever growing enrolment numbers, and less revenue from property taxes have all been cited as factors in the dramatic cuts.

A parcel tax has been proposed, which if adopted, would raise a projected $1.37 million annually.

“This is the time for our community to fight for what we have,” said parent Shari Conrad. “This is a hard economic environment, but we have a parcel tax to pass.”