Major cuts in school funding considered

Brace yourselves for some major cuts in basic school services. The Fairfax County Public Schools budget has a revenue shortfall requiring cuts totaling $162 million and the elimination of more than 1,700 positions.

The problem stems from an enrollment increase of more than 7,000 students, a decline in state revenue for the school district, and level-funding from the county.

Just about everything is on the table, including an increase in class size (which would result in saving $19.1 million), eliminating full-day kindergarten in all but the 34 Title I elementary schools (saving $19.1 million), eliminating elementary foreign language instruction ($3.4 million), eliminating all elementary school band and orchestra programs ($7 million), ending the modified school calendar ($600,000), eliminating poverty-based staffing ($19.8 million), ending summer school ($7.8 million), reducing technology specialists ($8.3 million), and reducing non-school-based administrators ($5 million).

The school board is also considering fees for athletic participation and Advanced Placement and Baccalaureate tests and increased fees for community use of facilities.

Community input can make a huge difference. Special interest groups are already mobilizing to save their programs. The Glasgow Middle School Music Boosters is urging its members to fight the proposal to terminate elementary band and orchestra programs. The group notes the “the total negative impact over many, many years will far outweigh any short-term savings. This will severely impact not only the kids in elementary school, but middle school and high school music programs. as well. in the years to come. Starting music at a young age is so important.” It should also be noted that students who are given music instruction tend to do better academically, especially in math.

If you feel strongly about saving the music programs, or other school programs on the chopping block, visit the county website and fill out a budget feedback form.

You can also present your views at one of the eight upcoming community budget dialogues. Sessions in the Annandale area will be held Thursday, Oct. 29, 7-9 p.m. at the Woodson High School cafeteria and Saturday, Nov. 14, 10 a.m.-noon at the George Mason Regional Library.
You must register in advance.