finding balance

Discussions about how to balance our budget are most often framed within the context of making cuts. Making cuts is not the only solution.  Raising revenue is an equally valid solution.  I think it is important to focus on every opportunity to ADD to the budget...the revenue side of the spread sheet, that is. We do this now through our fields and our performing arts spaces. This is why we often see investments in these areas included within bond proposals. The investments we make on turfed and lighted fields, speakers for the stadium and high definition video equipment for our PAC allow us to lease these spaces and earn unrecaptured dollars that we can use to pay teachers. Not only do our own students get to benefit from these valuable amenities, but the entire community reaps the reward. As future improvements are made to our campuses, we can increase the opportunities to lease our green spaces and facilities to generate more money. Smart and quality investments are our solution to our budget woes. I support the bond and I support the current Trustees for searching for every opportunity to keep cuts out of the classroom.