Money, money, money

To clarify further on the textbook matter -- which is probably not well known or understood, we annually get funds from the state to purchase textbooks and related materials for students. At the same time, there is a required "adoption cycle" from the state where a local district chooses from the state adopted list a particular set of texts. Each year it is a different subject area -- math one year, language arts another year, etc.

By providing the flexibility, the state will allow us to use the money (with no additional adoption requirements) for resolving the state shortfall in funding (i.e., we don't get more money we just have another way to make up what they didn't give us). We will still buy a lot of books (e.g., new students, lost books, worn books, etc.). The money "saved" will support teachers and classified staff in the schools and classrooms. Without the money, we would potentially be making more reductions in the programs of our schools.

I realize that all of this doesn't make a lot of sense, but it is the system of funding for public education in California. We have lost about $50 million in funding over the past two years in RUSD. With this "new" budget we lost another $14 million, and we know we are facing a deficit of $30+ million this coming spring -- SO any flexibility to help us through this time is greatly appreciated and very necessary. NONE of these funds have anything to do with the Measure B bond funds (local money) that was raised specifically for building projects in the District (like the athletic facility enhancements).