Superintendent Cortines’ Statement on Proposed Suspension of Prop. 98

Gov. Schwarzenegger's proposal to suspend Proposition 98 education funding is violating a promise California voters made to the children of this state.

While LAUSD already has made deep cuts based on the Governor's May revision guidance, the suspension of minimum funding under Prop. 98 would open a door to additional, and continued cuts throughout the year as the state's deficit grows.

LAUSD has already laid off teachers, library aides, office workers, building and grounds workers and reduced staff throughout the central office. We have had to make cuts that violate my educational principles such as increasing class size.

If Prop. 98 is suspended, the California legislature could make even deeper cuts throughout the year. The future of our state is at risk. If we think this current economic recession is bad, I shudder to think what education will look like after additional cuts. There won't be any education. Enough is enough.

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