March 14, 2008

School district report

State budget leaves schools with uncertainty

By Manny Barbara
Superintendent, Oak Grove School District
Special to the Times

A lot of uncertainty remains regarding the state budget and the impact on public education funding. The Governor has proposed suspending Proposition 98, the initiative passed by voters to guarantee a minimum funding amount for public education. The proposed reductions for 2008-2009 are over $4 billion dollars. California already ranks near the bottom in school funding when compared to other states. The state has already reduced public education funding by $9 billion since 2000!

The impact to the Oak Grove School District is significant, totaling approximately $7 million in reduced funding. This is on top of the over $4 million in reductions since 2000, while also closing two schools. We are committed to maintaining key programs that are priorities for our community, such as our Class Size Reduction Program at grades K-3 and the Visual and Performing Arts Program at grades 4-6. Thank you, Oak Grove community, for your support of our schools through the renewal of the Parcel Tax in 2004. Because of this, we have been able to maintain the quality education we provide for our students.

Kindergarten registration has begun. We are proud to offer extended-day kindergarten at all of our schools, plus a Junior Kindergarten option for students with September 1st through December 2nd birthdays. Please contact our Educational Services Division if you are interested in the Junior Kindergarten Program.

As always, please feel free to contact us on matters pertaining to the Oak Grove School District through our web site at: www.ogsd.k12.ca.us or 227-8300. Our web site also includes Board meeting agendas and minutes, Board Policies, and our District priorities, as listed in our Five-Year Plan.