Get Schooled

By jim d

February 12, 2009 7:53 AM | Link to this

Actually Dear,

There is no need to reduce spending—-Obama will save us all!

By Ernest

February 12, 2009 9:39 AM | Link to this

We are at the beginning and my concern is that many are not aware of future cuts down the road. I understand the the Homestead Grants will not be provided, which could result in property tax bills going up $200-$300 dollars. We will hear more discussions of furloughs as a means to save jobs.

We are going to have to face the fact, unless we are willing to pay more in property taxes, labor costs must be reduced in our schools systems. We will see more districts increase class sizes then use attrition and/or retirements as a means to reduce the number of teachers. There will be constant outcries to reduce central office staffing levels. I expect to see districts look to collaborate to see if volume purchasing agreements could be negotiated for buses, books, and other materials. I don’t envy any school board member at this time.

By Trying to Stay Optimistic

February 12, 2009 10:20 AM | Link to this

I have to agree—this is only the tip of the iceberg. The state is getting less money from taxes, which means school districts are getting less money from the state and from local taxes…. I agree that class sizes are likely to get bigger and we’ve already heard in Gwinnett County that part-time positions will be gone, and teachers eligible for retirement will be pushed out….

But before we get rid of teaching positions, shouldn’t districts be looking at cutting auxiliary positions first? Our school has 8 assistant principals who all have their own secretary. Couldn’t they share secretaries? One of those pricipals is part time and is mainly in charge of the school newsletter…. Our school also has three full-time media center people. I love them all dearly, but do we really need three people watching over a library? The same questions should be asked about all positions at the county office as well. Cutting teaching positions will directly impact students; cutting some of the other positions won’t.

By Three words

February 12, 2009 10:35 AM | Link to this

Where to cut? Three words: Central office administration. Then teachers would be free to teach, instead of wasting time doing paperwork whose sole entire purpose is to justify the existance of the dead weight.

By jim d

February 12, 2009 10:35 AM | Link to this

Y’all worry too much. I’m telling you that the stimulus package will save all jobs in our schools until we go totally bust. But hey then we can blame Republicans and pass another stimulus. So don’t fret your sweet little heads about schools cutting back on teaachers for at least 4 more years.

By Teacher, Too

February 12, 2009 2:13 PM | Link to this

Didn’t we blog about this in the past couple of weeks? (right about the time one of the school districts thought about asking teachers to return their raises?)

Anyway, I would take a paycut in fewer post-planning days. Also, I would suggest for districts to cut motivational speakers, monies for taking teachers out of school for staff development (at my school, teachers are out for inservice all the time— more money going to pay for subs), conference registration fees, and buying into the “cure de jour” every year.

The cuts for staff development and inservice could certainly be reinstated when the economy improves.

Also, I would eliminate the graduation and academic coaches (or, they could teach at least 1/2 day).

Here’s the really outrageous suggestion: If districts really wanted to save a lot of money— eliminate or severely cut back the sports programs. Oh no… that would NEVER happen. Coaches could get paid by boosters instead of by the school district. Again, that would never happen.

By LC

February 12, 2009 2:33 PM | Link to this

This may work itself out in a few years when there are fewer students due to people not being able to afford to have babies these days. Should significantly reduce the tax dollars needed for schools.

By jim d

February 12, 2009 3:09 PM | Link to this

LC,

wrong answer!

Within Obama’s stimulus plan is a huge reward to states that add to their welfare ranks. look to the future to see what quality of students will be increasing

By zoe

February 12, 2009 3:23 PM | Link to this

Our county just requested Department chairs submit info about each member of our departments including experience, degrees, what people were teaching and why. I’d hazard to predict they are trying to figure out which teachers need to be let go.

By Reality

February 12, 2009 4:21 PM | Link to this

zoe I really hate to hear of this approach. It only opens the door for them to play “favorites” and not to really consider the important factors for teachers.

jim d Sorry, but your posts on this one makes you really sound like a putz. People are on welfare now because of the massive lay offs due to the economy - no fault of their own making. States are going broke because of this - again, no fault of their own making, either. Obama and all of the federal government is trying to come up with some way to not only help the people in current need, but also to “fix” this economic disaster (which by the way was created by the last 8 years of republican control). It is my understanding that this emergency federal aid to the States for welfare is only for a few, limited years (don’t know the exact number, like 2 or 3) because there is hope that the economy will have turned around by then and people will again have jobs. Why would you have a problem with any of that?

By high school teacher

February 12, 2009 4:32 PM | Link to this

Would it be too preposterous to increase the State sales tax by one penny?

By Reality

February 12, 2009 4:53 PM | Link to this

high school teacher Preposterous? No. Fair? Heck no! Why? Your proposal is considered to be a ‘regressive’ tax by economists. In other words, increasing a tax the same for everyone will be a heavier burden on the poor compared to the wealthy.

Here is an example….. A more wealthy family of three with a net income of $100,000 probably won’t feel much impact of your increase of 1%. However, a less wealthy family of three with a net income of $40,000 would certainly have to make changes and struggle to absorb that increase. And, a family of three that are already unemployed with no net income will still need to buy food, etc., and would still need to pay that extra 1%.

Would that really be “fair?”

By jim d

February 12, 2009 5:03 PM | Link to this

Reality,

only a putz, as you say, would ever believe the government is capable of reducing benefits once they have been given. Indeed it may happen but it won’t be under a Democratic reign.

My problem?? is quite simply human nature and convincing people they need to work rather than living off of government hand outs once they have started recieving them.

By Gwinnett Parent

February 12, 2009 6:07 PM | Link to this

I attended a high school back in the 80’s that had 1 principal, 1 assistant principal, 1 secretary, and 1 guidance counselor. This school had 1200 students and the same discipline problems I hear other posters claim didn’t exist until today(must be the bubble crowd). Violent fist fights, pot smoking on campus, high school drop outs, and teen pregnancy were a daily occurance. We did not have a school nurse. Graduation coaches were not heard of. That was the job of guidance counselor. The internet, email, and fax machines did not exist. Therefore the 1 secretary had to answer phones and communicate the old fashioned way. Today my 6 yr old daughter attends an elementary school in Gwinnett that has under 1,000 students. This school has 1 principal, 3 assistant principals, a school nurse, 1-1 literacy/L.D. training from teachers w/ specialists and master’s degrees counselors for each grade level, a dedicated person to stand in front of the door for check in/out,expensive electronic white boards, and a high tech computer lab with the latest equipment. Technology is important. However, where I live the kids know how to use a computer before kindergarten and the parents are trying to limit their screen time. It is unfortunate to see all of this money thrown around and the children are not offered any foreign language classes, my daughter’s teacher does not have adequate teaching materials for her more advanced kids, and there is 1 teacher per 18 kids w/ a floating parapro.

By Bat Boy

February 12, 2009 7:10 PM | Link to this

I would not be willing to pay one dang cent in increased taxes for schools. We are in a time of contracting income and contracting wealth. Schools will have to figure out how to do their jobs with less, just like all of the rest of us will. School budgets are plenty big enough to find the money they need without compromising education. All that is missing is the will to do so.
School boards…we expect you to do your jobs or you will be finding new ones.

By Joshua Barlowe

February 12, 2009 7:11 PM | Link to this

Government run schools are a joke. I don’t want a single dime of mine going to them. Anyone who thinks they are going well should see how young people can’t spell, can’t write, and can’t think for themselves.

Who determined it was the government’s job to educate my children? Bad choice.

By won't tell

February 12, 2009 7:19 PM | Link to this

PTA Principal of the year Tracy Trussell just accepted a new school in the Milton area…..why are building new schools when there is a crunch? I realize the kids out there need a school but how does this help?

Fortunately the House just voted to cap property assessments. That’s great…..The parent’s today are overburdened and stressed enough (trying to raise a family, tighten belts, and keep a job) to have to deal with increases because our government’s spending finally caught up…..How about less dollars for that ugly yellow bridge and more for schools?

By Hal

February 12, 2009 7:34 PM | Link to this

Heres an idea from a single guy with no kids..

How about the current property rates pay for up to 2 kids in school at any time. Any additional kids you have to pay in an increased school tax. That means I support the school in some way, but not as much as my neighbors down the street in the exact same cookie cuter house paying the same amount into the school system that has 5 kids.

By just a teacher

February 12, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this

Pay for schools now or prisons later.

Now really want to fix this…

Turn our interstates into toll roads for non-Georgians.

Add 50% tax to all money or gifts excepted by politicians in office.

All coaches supplements paid by boosters but based on a state min/max.

State run casinos.

Alcohol sales on Sunday with an extra 5% tax.

By Lee

February 12, 2009 7:41 PM | Link to this

I see your lips moving, but all I hear is blah, blah, blah.

When my local school system says, “Hey, times are hard. We’re going to quit paying an In-school Suspension ‘teacher’ $92,000 per year just because he is a football coach. We’ve finally figured out that we don’t need all these counselors, graduation coaches, curriculum directors, assistant principals, PE teachers with PHD’s, ad infinitium.”

When my local school system says that, I might just feel compelled to say, “Great, how can I help?”

Until then…..

By bh

February 12, 2009 7:43 PM | Link to this

Not unreasonable to pay more taxes for schools.

The bulk of the taxes should be designated towards teacher salaries and schools should be required to perform better academically in exchange for the increased funding.

By JIMMY

February 12, 2009 7:44 PM | Link to this

THERE ARE MANY THINGS THAT CAN BE CUT OR ELIMINATED BEFORE YOU LOSE TEACHERS. SPORTS ARE COSTLY AND UNNECESSARY. TRANSPORTATION EXPENSES COULD BE CUT BY ONE THIRD. ADMINSTRATION EXPENSES COULD BE DRASTICALLY REDUCED. STRICTLY CLASSROOM INSTRUCTION FOR SIX HOURS EACH DAY AND YOU GO HOME.

By Maggie

February 12, 2009 7:48 PM | Link to this

Hal - I like that idea - I have 2 in private schools and I think I’m paying more than my fair share already. But that would be hard to enforce. The thing is, I want to be in a society where everyone knows how to read, write and do arithmetic - so that means supporting the school system. I do not think they all need to do fancy stuff with computers at my expense and there are a lot of frills that I think could be cut out. Yes, I know, the lottery pays for a lot. Maybe if we had horseracing in Ga paying for schools… I like that.

By Gwinnett Taxpayer

February 12, 2009 7:55 PM | Link to this

How about the people who are not taxpayers and have all these kids in school. They should be forced to share the burden for the education of their children. Property taxpayers have too long supported children even when some of us do not have any children in public schools.

These people have too long have had a free ride!!

Also the school systems themselves should start to cut the fat out of the administration. The first place to cut should be to cut these high salaries and the number of administrators and put some of them back in the classroom where some them belong.

By Behind Enemy Lines

February 12, 2009 8:16 PM | Link to this

Not one extra thin dime. I already begrudge the majority of what’s taken from me at gunpoint already, I can’t think of a drier hole I less want more money to be poured down & wasted.

By TULIP916

February 12, 2009 8:27 PM | Link to this

I definitely don’t want anymore of my money going to public schools…right on Gwinnett Parent….I am also a Gwinnett graduate and now my kids go to private school…It’s that or homeschooling for us all the way.

By Abe Lincoln

February 12, 2009 8:29 PM | Link to this

Why would anyone volunteer to pay more money for such a bad product. ALl we heard was GA needed to pay teachers more….well that happened and results became worse. We are now 49th in education. What exactly would this extra money in education do for us? Move below Mississippi?LMAO!!

By More "duh" from the peanut gallery

February 12, 2009 8:46 PM | Link to this

49th in education? Really? When did we get national tests to measure state education rankings?

Oh, I think you mean 49th using the SAT scores. Wow, you really are clueless as to how those “rankings” happen. I am from the midwest, very few students take the SAT. Pretty much the only ones were the Ivy League bound students. Those of us who were A-B type kids and were going to state schools took the ACT, SAT isn’t big in the midwest. (But somehow we seem to do well on all the tests anyway!) So Georgia lets anyone who has a #2 pencil take the SAT and most states only let the top 5-10% take the SAT…yeah that’s a great comparison. The real issue in Georgia is the lack of parenting (and the inability to use statistics properly).

By Sam

February 12, 2009 8:51 PM | Link to this

I’ve posted this on Maureen O’Downey’s blog about voucher schools.

The U.S. currently spends $10,800 per public school student and we get middling results in academic testing compared to the rest of the developed nations. Europe and Japan spend an avg $6500 per student and they get the best results.

So you can have whatever subjective opinions you want, but the numbers clearly point out that lack of money is not the problem.

By vlscpa

February 12, 2009 8:56 PM | Link to this

The more money we throw at schools, the sorrier the products are that they produce. I attended at least 7 schools all over the country before graduating from high school, and only ONE of those had A/C. We ate at our desks in some of those schools, and we were not abused or suffering because of it. We had zero tolerance, but that was defined more like “get pregnant, and you’re OUT.”

Stop the useless and counterproductive education of people who don’t even belong here, and we won’t have these ridiculous budget issues.

By Yep

February 12, 2009 9:00 PM | Link to this

You want to take even more of my money? Let’s start with ending the special interest programs like ESOL. These students for the most part do not even have parents that pay taxes. Hint, Hint, they are illegal!! Do not offer free lunches to everyone that qualifies, simply make sure that their income is verified. If they do not have a social, they do not qualify. The illegal aliens have put undo stress on our public services and should be FORCED to pay for their children’s educations at least!! There are millions of $$ wasted on educating non-citizens. It should stop now. We pay enough already. It is time that everyone paid their fair share!!!

By SCY

February 12, 2009 9:00 PM | Link to this

Both S. Korea and Finland spend less than half per pupil than we do here in the US and both countries are regularly ranked in the top two spots for Math and Science…its not a lack of funding its a lack of interest in the value of education at HOME.

But don’t let Jane and John Q. Public miss another episode of American Idol or some ball game, we can’t have that

By charley

February 12, 2009 9:07 PM | Link to this

LaGrange High School has more coaches as well as more counselors than it had teachers when I graduated. Cut administrators, paper shufflers and positions not required to teach our children.A vast majoprity of that money is wasted. We had one principal, one secretary, no counselors, no nurse and two janitors. They now have one principal, several assistants, sports office staff, front office staff and God knows how many counselors. If they allowed teachers to teach the need for counselors and graduation coaches, curriculum directors and assistant to the assistants would not exist. And as far as funding goes, the board and administrators seem to think the well has no bottom.

By NoMoreTaxes

February 12, 2009 9:30 PM | Link to this

Charge for everything that is not required to teach a child the main sugjects. Charge for transportation, charge what it costs for a school lunch, turn off the lights at the end of the day and on weekends, adjust the thermastats, charge for extra-curricular activities, don’t buy new books- reuse what you have (or buy a classroom set of books and subscribe to online book access for students to use outside of school). Be creative & ruthless with your dollars just like every family who has experienced a job loss has to.

By fed up

February 12, 2009 9:43 PM | Link to this

My kids graduated a few years ago but I don’t support additional taxes, especially property taxes for schools. Like someone already posted there are too many useless programs in schools that could be trimmed back if not cut out. ESOL, that’s a load of #*($#. I don’t agree with some children going to school that are so mentally handicapped that they don’t even know where they are and have no ability whatsoever to learn. I feel terribly sorry for these children and their parents but this is ridiculous. I guess that’s part of that load of *(#$ “no child left behind”. I have a friend who works in the transportation dept. and they bus some 21 year olds to work places. Granted they have some type of disability but I don’t really think it’s the public schools and our tax $$ that should pay for this.

By fed up

February 12, 2009 9:48 PM | Link to this

I think we pay more than enough already in taxes and especially property taxes. If more money is needed (and I believe some cuts could be done) then everyone should have to contribute not just the homeowners. There are so many programs like ESOL, as stated above that should not be paid for by our tax $$. I don’t mean to sound cold hearted but there are children w/such terrible disabilities at public schools that aren’t even aware of where they are at, much less any hope of learning anything. I guess that’s part of that BS called “no child left behind.” A friend of mine works in the transportation dept at the local school system and they are taking 21 year olds to work daily on school buses. I’m sorry but that is not what our tax $$ should be paying for.

By fed up

February 12, 2009 9:49 PM | Link to this

sorry mine posted 2 times, a little different wording either computer error or operator error, more than likely operator. :-)

By David S

February 12, 2009 10:02 PM | Link to this

The schools suck now. Why would I want to waste any more of MY hard earned income on these failures?

More money does not mean better schools. This has been proven time and time again. Shut down the government schools, sell off the property, make parents pay their own way for a change and let charity fill the gap between cost and ability. The free market will deliver far better than the government any day.

Lincoln’s birthday is the best example of why the government schools must go. Just look at the propaganda the children of this country are taught about this monster.

Here is the truth. He wanted to ship the blacks back to Africa, never believed that the two races could ever get along, imposed some of the most oppressive tarriffs on the south, just to fund manufacturing expansion in the north and to line the pockets of his friends in industry, basically forced the hand of the south into war when all they wanted to do was seceed (fully constitutionally acceptable at the time) and get away from the tarriffs. The schools teach a complete lie and these propaganda machines must go if we are ever to educate this country about freedom and respect for the constitution.

The country is bankrupt. This is certainly no time to suggest any additional spending at all. We are on the brink of the next depression and this stimulus is just the push to send us over the brink. The schools are soon going to be the least of your problems.

By Homeschool Mom

February 12, 2009 10:04 PM | Link to this

ABSOLUTELY NOT! As a homeschool mom, I already pay taxes for a horrific public school system that I don’t use. I should be getting a tax credit already!

By Bob

February 12, 2009 11:04 PM | Link to this

No. Definitely no.

We have no kids, and are tired of paying for other peoples’ children. We’ve already paid enough in taxes to cover what it cost for our own public schooling educations.

If you want kids, you pay for their education. Or…let everyone pay their own way. Why not allow everyone to pay for the education that they had after they start earning money, not unlike having to pay back a college loan? That way each person fairly pays for his/her own education (and perhaps a little extra to cover additional expenses such as cases where someone has passed away before the entire bill has been paid). That seems much more fair than asking those with no children to help pay for children in families, particulary in those cases of families with 3,4,5 (or, in some cases, 14) children.

By SallyB

February 12, 2009 11:04 PM | Link to this

Lee *is on the track to sanity. If there is no direct contact with students , *the position is dispensable. That is definitely the starting point.

All of the so called Directors and Consultants and Liasons, etc have teaching certificates and should be put back in the classroom or let go.

It’s just not that difficult to figure this out. There is a whole lot of PORK padding every central office of every school system…..at least in metro Atlanta.

By mad as hell

February 12, 2009 11:24 PM | Link to this

NOT NO, HELL NO!

By Lynn43

February 13, 2009 12:18 AM | Link to this

By your comments, I can tell that most of you have absolutely NO idea what is involved in running a school. Jimmy wants to cut sports programs. Most sports related expenses are paid by the revenue generated by games or boosters. And how do you cut transportation? We are already running double shifts (less drivers) and have students standing up which is not acceptable but necessary. Maybe some administrators are not necessay, but if the feds and state to stop passing down unfunded mandates, we would not need as many. My system has cut them to the bone. And what about teachers going home early. How I wish, but they are on salary and no matter how long or short they work, they received the same salary. Please tell me how my system can cut anymore. I’m ready and willing to listen—as long as you are educated enough to know what you are talking about.

By joe

February 13, 2009 12:59 AM | Link to this

Aww! What a shame. Money is not an issue. The entire system is so bloated. Then you have all the PC stuff they have to do that has nothing to do with educating kids. Tighten the straps NEA, maybe you shouldn’t donate so much money to left wing political campaigns. My business is down 82% from last fiscal year so you get no sympathy from me. Our property taxes in Atlanta are so high I don’t see how people can afford to live here. Look at the ROI we get on it. One of the worse govt school systems in the country at over 14K/yr per student.

By Scott

February 13, 2009 3:22 AM | Link to this

Cut central administration positions. They add little real value in educating our children. Is it necessary for each of 159 counties to design their own curriculums? Combine county operations with other counties. Phase out most positions that don’t directly involve imparting children with knowledge. As soon as the economy comes back, use the extra money to increase teacher pay as much as possible. They’ve earned it and they create the only real value in our education system.

By catlady

February 13, 2009 7:58 AM | Link to this

Cut teachers who “consult” on school time. If there are not enough children needing instruction to fill the teacher’s time, the position should be offered half time. We have 3 teachers who work with kids a few hours a day and “consult” (walk up and down the halls, gossip, play on their computers) the rest of the day. Not surprisingly, they are politically well-connected. The rest of the staff, who struggle to get to the bathroom, consult after school hours, during their 30 minute planning period, or during their lunch.

Cut literacy and math coaches. Can’t afford them. They spend all their time consulting.

Cut graduation coaches. They are helpful but they are doing the parents’ job.

Cut back on those who do testing. With RTI, there is little need for their services. In our county, no one can get through the maze to get evaluated.

Child care after school: it has to pay for itself. Charge what is needed to cover the staffing.

Require middle and high school teachers to spend 45 minutes of their planning time tutoring elementary school kids, since they have one and a half to two hours of planning time daily.

Cut the CO. Folks seem busy there but have time for lengthy lunches and they are not so important to the running of the schools that they have to miss lengthy junkets to learn the newest cure du jour. If we can get along without them 5-7 days a month while they travel, we can get along without them half time.

By bearcasey

February 13, 2009 8:28 AM | Link to this

I’m retired from Fulton County after 31 years as a teacher, coach and administrator. I’m still a “stakeholder” because my son, Beau, is a senior at Northview high school.

Economic waste is built into the school. Examples:

• Assistant principals at $100,000+ a year spending their time as “mall guards” during lunch duty, bus duty, before school duty, etc. Businesses pay about $10.00 per hour for this kind of work.

• A “jumbo tron” TV screen at the football field so that “jock-sniffer” parents can watch their little darlings post an 0-10 season! Remember, I coached for 20 , love sports, and my son played sorts at Northview. Nevertheless, what a waste of money.

• Bob Burke, former principal and associate super for curriculum and instruction at $150,000 per year. Anyone who ever worked with the man (10 years here) KNOWS that he knew little about “curriculum and instruction” and cared less. Money down the rat-hole.

NO WONDER THE PUBLIC SAYS”NO MORE!”

By high school teacher

February 13, 2009 9:04 AM | Link to this

Reality, with a 1 penny sales tax increase, that adds to one dollar more for every one hundred spent. So, a family that spends $100 at Wal Mart each week for groceries and other items will see a $4 monthly increase in their budget - if they spend $100 each week, which most people don’t. Assuming a family spends $100 each week on groceries, toilet paper, etc,. their expenses will go up $52 a year. How much do you think property taxes will increase this year? I know that mine are already going up $200 because of the homestead grant being repealed. I think that’s more reasonable than burdening only property owners with the school system bills.

By Northview Teacher

February 13, 2009 9:44 AM | Link to this

Hey Bear,

What do you think is going to happen to the teachers?

I have a feeling that we are on the leading edge of some really tough times. The amazing thing is that the public seems to expect so much from teachers while wanting to give so little. If money is not important in education, why do people pay $15K for private schools?

Anyway, please rub your crystal ball and tell us what you see.

I wish I could quit this year, but I need a few more years for both personal and financial reasons.

We miss you.

(PS I wonder what happened to that dear little child that caused you so much trouble)

By Mike V.

February 13, 2009 10:03 AM | Link to this

It’s especially unfortunate to read of potential layoffs when you’re a newly minted college graduate eager to start his teaching career—namely, me. Unfortunately my efforts and dedication to teaching have sidelined me in the name of “bad economy.” I look forward to a time when schools are willing to hire, and willing to hire new teachers, again.

By lylone

February 13, 2009 10:03 AM | Link to this

I think they need to start using sales taxes to pay for schools. I am a single homeowner and every year my property taxes go to the schools, yet I have no children. But down the street there are 6 kids from illegals living with 1 parent in a rental house. Now is it really fair that I have to pay property taxes for their kids to go to school? NO! FAIR TAX people!

By ThanksBush

February 13, 2009 10:11 AM | Link to this

No matter what subject comes up some A**hole wants to bring up PRESIDENT OBAMA. Maybe there are idiots out there that are just out of touch with reality. Loss of jobs, homes, $10 billion a month to the war in Iraq, high crime rate, need I say more? Obama & the rest of the Country INHERITED a TRILLION DOLLAR DEB thanks to Bush. Atleast President Obama wants to HELP the forgotten Citizens of this Country, the WORKING CLASS, not just the super rich & wealthy. Where is all this surplus Lottery money the State has? The sales are exceeding & the Lottery Commission is getting bonuses. RIDICULOUS!!!

By Nan

February 13, 2009 10:15 AM | Link to this

Georgians enjoy some of the lowest tax rates in the country and still whine about every dime they part with — and they also get to enjoy schools that are some of the worst, a crumbling infrastructure, and contaminated food products that have become a national disgrace. You get what you pay for — and if you’re not willing to pay, you get nothing.

By NICK

February 13, 2009 10:19 AM | Link to this

Here’s an idea…Stop spending county tax payer money on educating illegals and stop providing free lunches and daycare.

By Ms. Writer

February 13, 2009 10:22 AM | Link to this

Charge extra taxes for people who have kids— maybe that will curb people having kids that they cant afford and that others have to pay for

By Jack Bear

February 13, 2009 10:22 AM | Link to this

No, on the taxes. I have been paying $3000 in school tax a year for the last 10 years. I do not have any children in the school system. What I have learned recently is that the teachers are teaching to the test and nothing else. Also, where are the books? Why do schools/teachers assume that all students have access to a computer and the internet?

Regarding Marietta city schools. How much money would have been saved when building Marietta High School? The architectural design certainly does not improve education. They should have scaled back on the “Frank Lloyd Wright” style. I wonder what is the power requirement to heat and cool some of that wasted space? Keep the building basic.

By Pay for your own damn kids

February 13, 2009 10:23 AM | Link to this

Hell no I’m not willing to pay more for the education of other peoples kids! I don’t have kids and yet I have to pay thru the nose for your brats. You parents that spawned those little darlings should be paying the full cost of educating them. PAY FOR YOUR OWN DAMN KIDS

By idiots

February 13, 2009 10:24 AM | Link to this

Here is the solution. End public schools. Let teachers negotiate contracts. Have parents pay the cost. Forget that whole “common good thing.” Ignorance is bliss. We will become Rwanda or Ethiopia.

Hell yes I would pay more for schools.

It is easy to kick schools but do you really not want to have them?

By Absolutely NOT

February 13, 2009 10:26 AM | Link to this

Let’s see….I choose not to have children, because I cannot afford them. However, I still have to pay a school tax for my house to educate other people’s children! Like the mother that already had 6 children and just had 8 more…..who do you think is REALLY going to pay for raising those children!! Yup…you and me!! Welcome to the Welfare State……where nobody is responsible for their actions anymore!!

By Marguerite

February 13, 2009 10:29 AM | Link to this

How about letting all these people who rent pay toward their childrens education. Property owner seem to pay more than enough now. As I approach the “but when you get 65 you will be able to lower your property taxes” I understand that that might not happen. Maybe increase sales tax by one half of a percent.

By DM

February 13, 2009 10:31 AM | Link to this

I am quite angry about the homestead tax posssibly being taken away— I already pay a hefty tax to the school system and like retired people who get a school tax break, have no kids. If they take homestead away, then it is only fair for those of us with no kids to not have to pay so much to the schools. Maybe a set fair tax like the VAT will help fix this state tax $ issue as well as federal so the system can be improved fairly. Everyone pays then.

By Neil

February 13, 2009 10:53 AM | Link to this

Why can’t counties use the SPLOST money in more effective ways to fund both capital projects and also to backfill operating costs in times like these when we need to keep the lights on, rather than build new schools.

By fed up

February 13, 2009 11:18 AM | Link to this

thanksbush sorry but Obama didn’t inherit anything…he was/is part of the problem, remember he was in congress (that is when he wasn’t campaigning which was almost the entire time he was in congress) and he rec’d tons of $$ from lobbyist. That argument doesn’t cut it. He’s not looking out for the forgotten citizens, he’s looking for more votes from the people who don’t work and paying back his donors for getting him elected. You need a “touch of reality.”

By Silverchief

February 13, 2009 11:23 AM | Link to this

Hell NO !! They can’t manage the money they get now, and where does Georgia stand in the Nation in education..is it 48th……….GeeeeeZ

By Dan

February 13, 2009 11:26 AM | Link to this

NOOOOO Public schools already spend far more per student than private and deliver half the product The problem is pols always wrap social programs in with school spending, thats always the problem with government. They claim to rasie taxes for education (because the know the public has a soft spot) and it is then spent on other things. We neeed to ensure the current dollars are spent appropriately before giving them any more

By SallyB

February 13, 2009 11:34 AM | Link to this

Children of parents who are in the country illegally should not be entitled to enter our schools. Do you have any idea how much money this costs all taxpayers? We are hemorrhaging tax dollars for all aspects of the care and feeding of those in this country illegally. I am as compassionate as next guy,but not at the expense of our own children. It kind of reminds me of the husband who knocks his own wife down while rushing to open the door for his friend’s date.

By John

February 13, 2009 11:35 AM | Link to this

If you want to raise more money for schools, tax the people who use them the most. Every person who rents should be taxed for schools just like property owners. There are more kids in school who’s parent rent then own. Follow Obama and spread the Wealth and the Pain.

By Time for real Change

February 13, 2009 11:47 AM | Link to this

As a tax payer on two homes and having put both my kids in private schools because public schools dont teach anymore, NO. Enough is enough. If the schools were good and the teachers brighter then 5th graders then maybe. Right now from what I see, you cant tell the teachers from the students and thats a big problem

By Hmmmmm

February 13, 2009 11:50 AM | Link to this

I think I see a TAX revolt brewing! It’s about time! Wake Up People! NO MORE TAXES! If the state of Georgia sends you a bill in the mail for more, JUST BURN IT!

By Hmmmmm

February 13, 2009 11:54 AM | Link to this

Thanksbush, YOUR A MORON!

By T.Hamilton

February 13, 2009 12:08 PM | Link to this

Yes, I definently would pay more in taxes for education and various other high priority educational programs available for students. This is our future that we are investing in. The future of America lies in these same children hands. You be the judge?

By Laura

February 13, 2009 12:08 PM | Link to this

Why should I pay for increased taxes for children education when 1) I do not have children, 2) at 49 I will not have any children, 3) my husband has no children, 4) both spouse and myself are only children so there are no children in our future!

The breeders should worry about paying more taxes for their spawn - thats your problem!

By jim d

February 13, 2009 12:16 PM | Link to this

I’m a bitter, immature, Republican who can’t accept the fact that a Democrat won the last election. I will add nothing constructive to any discussion, opting instead to attempt to portray myself as some intellectual while trashing the efforts of our new administration. I will parrot the talking points that the so-called leaders of my party tell me and will not use my own mind to think for myself. Palin in 2012!!

By nita

February 13, 2009 12:17 PM | Link to this

No, We already buy the soap, hand sanitizer, copier paper, paper towels, and kleenex for the school system. what are they going to buy. Lets get rid of the excess personnel (most due to nepotism) in all levels of the education system and we should be able to survive in these hard times. I already pay enough taxes for schools. what I’d like too see is sacrifices across the board from the adults in the education system or better yet. the bonuses being passed out for the lottery exec’s to be returned an put back in the schools. Besides, every job does not require a bonus. the little people who are worked like dogs don’t get bonuses for doing their jobs or doing exceptionally well at jobs but the exec’s seem to keep getting bonuses no matter how badly the company performs. this is madness.

By FCM

February 13, 2009 12:18 PM | Link to this

Let me think: Hope & SPLOST plus making the schools fight for the money by making them all PRIVATE schools. I pay for my children’s education but at a reasonable/competive cost. 86 the bus system. Lunch would be part of the tutition. If a parent cannot afford a school—-then some kind of volunteer (para-pro, answer phones, etc) arrangement could be done where their time buys the kid’s education.

By Greg

February 13, 2009 12:47 PM | Link to this

Nan

I will continue to watch every dime, no change that, every penny that goes out the door of my household. It’s hard-earned and it will d@mn sure be hard-spent!!

Lest you think that over-spending gets you quality, I’ll refer you to the posts of Sam @8:51 and More “duh” from the peanut gallery @8:46. Both posters disabuse us of the faulty reasoning that more money spent equals better education.

Georgia’s public and private school systems continue to improve without the high-pay, low performance found in many urban schools in the North - notably, Chicago. I have no doubt, that if we provide parents with vouchers, they will further enhance the competitiveness of our education system.

Long live educational freedom!

By Teacher, Too

February 13, 2009 3:02 PM | Link to this

Everyone pays property taxes whether directly or indirectly. People who rent houses— their property taxes are figured into their monthly rent (if the homeowners are smart enough to figure out to include that into the rent).

People who rent apartments— they pay property taxes through the rent on their apartment.

So, each family pays one way or another.

By jim d

February 13, 2009 3:41 PM | Link to this

jim d February 13, 2009 12:16 PM

I don’t care who you are—thats pretty damn funny stuff.

By jim d

February 13, 2009 3:44 PM | Link to this

Teacher too,

I hate to tell you, but you’ll never win that argument with folks that aren’t smart enough to have already figured it out.

By Reality

February 13, 2009 3:56 PM | Link to this

A great idea to raise money for schools - increase sales tax on “child only” stuff….. baby formula, diapers, child car seat, crib, baby clothes, etc.

Why should I help support other people’s kids while they continue to have more and more? I already pay enough towards that with my property taxes.

By high school teacher

February 13, 2009 5:49 PM | Link to this

Teacher Too and jimd, what about people who pass through our state and stay at our hotels and eat at our restaurants? They can help us out as well if he had a one penny increase.

By Lee

February 13, 2009 8:52 PM | Link to this

Random thoughts….

• I’ve never understood why you have 150+ counties with their own payroll, human resources, procurement, accounting, fleet services, etc, etc, departments. Looks to me that the taxpayers could save a bunch of money if they regionalize some of that stuff.

• Actually, I do understand, it’s called control. Each superintendent runs his own petty little fiefdom and he’ll be damned if he is going to relinquish control over any of it.

• My wife was running copies on our personal copier at home the other day. Seems as though the school is “cracking down” on the number of copies everyone is running because they are still in a lease agreement paying a premium on the number of copies run. Most companies did away with those type leases 10 years ago.

• I wonder if anyone at the school knows you can call Ga Power to come in and conduct an energy audit of your facilities? Every little bit helps…

• I figured out that over 18% of my county’s salaries go to someone with “Special” in front of their title. Seems excessive to me. Maybe we just got a lot of inbreeding going on out here in the sticks….

• Now that I think about, that does explain my wife’s second cousin, once removed, on her mother’s side…

Mystery solved.

By how many?

February 14, 2009 2:35 PM | Link to this

Lets see how many are losing their jobs. Many teachers probably already know how many slots are going to be lost in their school. List the number so bloggers can get an idea of how bad teachers (as opposed to admin & board office staff) are getting hit.