AcalanesUHSD
We educate every student to excel and contribute in a global society.
February 24, 2010

Eliminating the Competitive Edge

"We educate every student to excel and contribute in a global society."  The Acalanes Union High School mission statement could soon become a dream, instead of a viable mission.  With the announced reduction of $254 per student for the 2010-2011 school year and further cuts likely to come, AUHSD students will lose their competitive edge when applying for college, university and technical schools.

 

The district will receive less funding next year by the state than it did five years ago.  During the same period, expenses and state mandates have increased.  Class sizes have increased and will continue to do so.  Elective programs have been cut.  On February 3, 56.9 full-time teaching positions were selected for release at the end of this school year.  The Acalanes Union High School District must reduce its 2010-2011 budget by $4.8 million.

 

Consequently, AUHSD will no longer be offering students a seven-period school day.  There will not be state and local funding available to support these class sections.  Additionally, six-period day course options must be reduced.

 

While some people may see this as a return to a basic education structure of several decades past, many view this as the decimation of one of the most respected high school districts in the nation.  Although it is natural for most of us to have cherished memories of our high school years, it is clear that a 20th Century education does not meet today's needs.  The mastery of complex academic standards with fewer and fewer resources is simply not possible.

 

At the request of parent and community leaders, the Governing Board of the Acalanes Union District approved a resolution to submit the Emergency Education Act of 2010 (Measure A) for community consideration.  Measure A has a life span of five years at $112 per parcel.  This May 4 vote will determine whether the district will need to finalize its program cuts by the mandated May 15 deadline and be forced to provide AUHSD students with a less-competitive high school education.

 
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John Stockton, Superintendent
Acalanes Union High School District
925-280-3900
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