School Budget Cuts

[RoyceTTU]

XXXXXXXXXXXX Independent School District

January 27, 2011


XXX Teachers and Staff,
As many of you are aware, Texas is in an unprecedented financial situation that we will face for at least the next two years. As you know, the Texas Legislature is in session and currently working on a budget for the State. We, as a state, are facing a huge shortfall of revenue this biennium due to the poor economy and the reduction of local property taxes in 2006. Most estimates put this budget deficit around $27 billion just to keep state and educational services at the current funding level.
Last week, the Legislative Budget Board released the House version of the 2012-13 base budget estimates, and this week, the Senate did the same. Please note, it is important for us to keep in mind that these "draft" budgets are starting points. There will certainly be a great deal of debate, and we probably won't have the final budget numbers until early this summer, at best. Nevertheless, it is very important for educators to understand the current legislative stance regarding public education funding and this budget, and it is not good.
The following numbers are very alarming. I want to try to bring the reality of the State budget numbers and reductions down to the District level and how it would impact XXX ISO.
Statewide, the initial House budget is $31.1 billion down from the current two-year budget, a drop of 16.6%. Public education spending would drop a total of $7 billion from current levels. The budget also notes that this proposal does not provide any additional funding for new student growth in the State, estimated to be somewhere around 80,000 additional students. These new students represent an additional $2.2 billion that would not see any funding. All total, public educationin this plan would be underfunded by $9.8 billion. The plan does not raise any additional tax revenue or use any of the $9.4 billion in the Rainy Day Fund.

For XXXX ISO, if the school funding formula is reduced by $5 billion a year for the next two years, the financial consultant, XXXX, XXXXX & Associates, estimates that XXXX would expect to receive $1.4 million less, per year, than what we currently receive.
XXXX's current budget of approximately $10 million would be reduced by $1.4 million during the next year, a 14% reduction. Currently 73% of our budget is used for personnel. All other district
operatingexpensesaccount fortheadditional 27%ofthebudget. Thatmeans thatmostofthe
reductions would result in personnel losses.
Understandably not all of the $1.4 million would come from staff reductions. The remainder
would come from reductions or elimination of program budgets and increases in class ratios, up
to the currently proposed, 25:1 ratio.
Most importantly, at this time, we must stay informed throughout this legislative session.
TexaslSO.com provides current and relevant information from around the state on a daily basis.
I will send email updates, visit with the Superintendent's Advisory Council, and work closely with
our administrative staff and Board of Trustees. The proposed massive reductions to public
education will be devastating, not only to XXXXX ISO, but also to other districts throughout the
State and to the State's economy as well.
If you have any questions, comments, or concerns that you would like to share with me, please
do not hesitate to contact me.
XXXXX XXXXX





I was forwarded this email and it didn't state that it was privlaged but for care sake, I removed the school names. It's an interesting letter that I'm sure that will affect many of us.

[Ernest T Bass]

We've all received a similar email. Gonna be rough times ahead for those in education. Will lots of unemployed teachers come August.

[NastySlot]

Originally posted by Ernest T Bass
We've all received a similar email. Gonna be rough times ahead for those in education. Will lots of unemployed teachers come August.


my first thought was a lot encouraged early retirements.

[GrTigers6]

Originally posted by Ernest T Bass
We've all received a similar email. Gonna be rough times ahead for those in education. Will lots of unemployed teachers come August. Yeah Im glad I work for a school district who really knows how to handle their money.

[Ernest T Bass]

That too.

[Ernest T Bass]

Originally posted by GrTigers6
Yeah Im glad I work for a school district who really knows how to handle their money.
It's not about that. Each district gets money from the state. They build their budget around that and they have to spend all of it every year or they'll get less the next year. The state is now saying that districts will get less money. So, something has to give. Usually around 70-80% of a districts budget is in payroll, so that's where thr cuts will be made.

[NastySlot]

Originally posted by Ernest T Bass
It's not about that. Each district gets money from the state. They build their budget around that and they have to spend all of it every year or they'll get less the next year. The state is now saying that districts will get less money. So, something has to give. Usually around 70-80% of a districts budget is in payroll, so that's where thr cuts will be made.


yes that is payroll....not only for the teachers....but all employees...some of those people behind the scenes that make the district go...maintance ....food staff .....transportation are going to take a hit..............keep them in you thoughts and prayers........it affects their families.

[Ernest T Bass]

Dallas ISD is talking about 600 positions being eliminated...

[NastySlot]

Originally posted by Ernest T Bass
Dallas ISD is talking about 600 positions being eliminated...


and my guess would be most administrators keeping there jobs.

[NastySlot]

Originally posted by NastySlot
and my guess would be most administrators keeping there jobs.


don't get me wrong...I wish no one would lose their job.

[GreenMonster]

If all state revenue is accounted for through oil and gas tax and state sales taxes would it not make sense to bump those rates ever so slightly to boost revenue to a workable format?? The current state sales tax rate is set at 6.25% or 6.25 cents on every dollar. It has been the same exact rate for as long as I can remember. Why not bump that number up a penny to 7.25% or 7.25 cents on every dollar? Local municipalities also get a piece of the sales tax dollars at another 1 or 2% raising the current total to either 7.25% or 8.25% depending on where you live. I, personally, can afford to pay an extra penny for my Dollar Menu cheeseburger at McDonald's. It would be a very nominal and almost unnoticeable means to raise taxes statewide and would raise a dramatic amount of funds for the state coffers. What is hard or difficult about this? Well, the hard part is that many of the state representatives ran on a "No New Taxes" campaign. So instead of raising taxes we are going to destroy our state economy by slashing jobs and putting more people in the already swollen unemployment lines which will further raise the deficit our state is seeing compounding our problem for the next budget session in 2 years. This is 4th major economic slowdown that our country has faced in the 235 years of it's history. Each and every one of the previous 3 economic slowdowns were defeated by job creation. Until our government leaders wise up and learn the lessons history can teach us then we are in for misery and despair. Lower taxes on businesses to stimulate job growth, raise taxes on the people to stabilize government budgets, and gradually lower those taxes back down as time goes by as the economic outlook improves. It's a really simple concept that our legislators aren't willing to even attempt for fear of losing their own position, to hell with the rest of the people in the state. I don't know about the rest of you, but I'd much rather have a job and pay higher taxes than not have a job and depend on welfare to feed my family.

[Ernest T Bass]

Originally posted by NastySlot
don't get me wrong...I wish no one would lose their job.

I feel differently....but yes, you are correct in your prognostication.

[BEAST]

This scenario leads me to a troubling question. Since school is truely about learning and not just football, (I know a lot of us may think differently:D ) whose positions should be the first to take a hit. Also, will we coaching staffs reduced to just a few coaches? I guess what I am saying is this, who's first, teachers or coaches?




BEAST

[Send_the_House]

Originally posted by BEAST
This scenario leads me to a troubling question. Since school is truely about learning and not just football, (I know a lot of us may think differently:D ) whose positions should be the first to take a hit. Also, will we coaching staffs reduced to just a few coaches? I guess what I am saying is this, who's first, teachers or coaches?




BEAST

That's a very obvious answer...

[NastySlot]

Originally posted by BEAST
This scenario leads me to a troubling question. Since school is truely about learning and not just football, (I know a lot of us may think differently:D ) whose positions should be the first to take a hit. Also, will we coaching staffs reduced to just a few coaches? I guess what I am saying is this, who's first, teachers or coaches?




BEAST


most coaches teach and their contracts are tied to teaching...coaching is a stipend.........one teacher that coaches football will usually have a second sport.......so to eliminate a football coach would usually mean eliminating a freshman baseball, jv basketball, girls soccer or assist. track coach.

what might happen is all those guys at big schools...that only are assistants for football and teach one or two classes might be in the classroom more next year.

[Trench Warrior]

Correct me if I am wrong, but wasn't the revenue from the lottery supposed to be able to fully fund education.

[NastySlot]

Originally posted by Trench Warrior
Correct me if I am wrong, but wasn't the revenue from the lottery supposed to be able to fully fund education.

I think that is for higher education...................I think the state is missing out with all the money that goes to oklahoma and louisiana for gambling.

[Ernest T Bass]

A very real scenario is for athletics to be completely after school and coaches will spend the entire day in the classroom, as opposed to having an athletic period. If the UIL will change the rule about only keeping athletes after school while in season, it won't really be a problem.
In Texas, there is no such thing as money being allocated for any one specific thing. Yes, the lotto money was supposed to go to schools, but all money goes into the same "General Funds" account and then our government distributes it as they see fit.

[Blastoderm55]

Originally posted by GreenMonster
If all state revenue is accounted for through oil and gas tax and state sales taxes would it not make sense to bump those rates ever so slightly to boost revenue to a workable format?? The current state sales tax rate is set at 6.25% or 6.25 cents on every dollar. It has been the same exact rate for as long as I can remember. Why not bump that number up a penny to 7.25% or 7.25 cents on every dollar? Local municipalities also get a piece of the sales tax dollars at another 1 or 2% raising the current total to either 7.25% or 8.25% depending on where you live. I, personally, can afford to pay an extra penny for my Dollar Menu cheeseburger at McDonald's. It would be a very nominal and almost unnoticeable means to raise taxes statewide and would raise a dramatic amount of funds for the state coffers. What is hard or difficult about this? Well, the hard part is that many of the state representatives ran on a "No New Taxes" campaign. So instead of raising taxes we are going to destroy our state economy by slashing jobs and putting more people in the already swollen unemployment lines which will further raise the deficit our state is seeing compounding our problem for the next budget session in 2 years. This is 4th major economic slowdown that our country has faced in the 235 years of it's history. Each and every one of the previous 3 economic slowdowns were defeated by job creation. Until our government leaders wise up and learn the lessons history can teach us then we are in for misery and despair. Lower taxes on businesses to stimulate job growth, raise taxes on the people to stabilize government budgets, and gradually lower those taxes back down as time goes by as the economic outlook improves. It's a really simple concept that our legislators aren't willing to even attempt for fear of losing their own position, to hell with the rest of the people in the state. I don't know about the rest of you, but I'd much rather have a job and pay higher taxes than not have a job and depend on welfare to feed my family.

An additional one percent added to sales tax revenues would equate to over $35,000,000.00. Its not huge in the grand scheme of things, and it would be a tough sell for reasons you've mentioned.

I think local, county, and state offices are going to have to look at tightening their belts and implementing shorter work-weeks or furloughs. The schools shouldn't be the only ones seeing their budgets and employees slashed.

And corporations need to pay their share. The Dow nearly hit 12,000 yesterday. There's a lot of money out there right now, but the state is not seeing any of it. Up the franchise tax to 2% unless the company can prove it is creating jobs and investing in Texas. Those corporations are still comprised of people using of local services and infrastructure and public schools. They can be allowed to stand and watch while the state goes down in flames. They're welcome to move shop to California.

[Ernest T Bass]

Originally posted by Blastoderm55
An additional one percent added to sales tax revenues would equate to over $35,000,000.00.

That would close the deficit, with $4 billion in the black. Sounds like a helluva idea to me!

[Blastoderm55]

Originally posted by Ernest T Bass
That would close the deficit, with $4 billion in the black. Sounds like a helluva idea to me!

Um, that's only 35 million. Aren't we talking about a deficit in the billions?

[Ernest T Bass]

Originally posted by Blastoderm55
Um, that's only 35 million. Aren't we talking about a deficit in the billions?

My bad.

[Blastoderm55]

Originally posted by Ernest T Bass
My bad.

Eh. Still sucks to know that $35 million is essentially a drop in the bucket.

[Ernest T Bass]

All the zeroes start to run together once you get to 8 figures.

[Black_Magic]

Originally posted by RoyceTTU
XXXXXXXXXXXX Independent School District

January 27, 2011


XXX Teachers and Staff,
As many of you are aware, Texas is in an unprecedented financial situation that we will face for at least the next two years.

Wait a Second!!. As I remember it Our Great Govenor stated All during the last election season and Even Bragged about how Great Texas has done during the recession... Now it looks like he Lied???:thinking: I wish they would make up thier mind.. Is the state doing good or not Govenor?? Guess its clear he lied to help get re elected. Did he refuse to take stimulus money??:thinking:

[Ernest T Bass]

Originally posted by Black_Magic
Wait a Second!!. As I remember it Our Great Govenor stated All during the last election season and Even Bragged about how Great Texas has done during the recession... Now it looks like he Lied???:thinking: I wish they would make up thier mind.. Is the state doing good or not Govenor?? Guess its clear he lied to help get re elected. Did he refuse to take stimulus money??:thinking:

It was an unofficial lie. The budget is only made every 2 years. So, the last time the state made it's budget, there was a surplus and that's all that any official record stated. However, there is no GD way Perry didn't know that that surplus had become a $31 billion deficit. That's probably why Perry refused to debate with Bill White, b/c it would have been brought up.

[GrTigers6]

Originally posted by Ernest T Bass
It's not about that. Each district gets money from the state. They build their budget around that and they have to spend all of it every year or they'll get less the next year. The state is now saying that districts will get less money. So, something has to give. Usually around 70-80% of a districts budget is in payroll, so that's where thr cuts will be made. I understand that, I was refering to looking at positions individually.
Every year we have people retire move on etc. They do a good job of assesing what positions to fill and which ones we no longer need. That way we dont have to undergo a huge personell cut if the need arises

[RoyceTTU]

Originally posted by GrTigers6
I understand that, I was refering to looking at positions individually.
Every year we have people retire move on etc. They do a good job of assesing what positions to fill and which ones we no longer need. That way we dont have to undergo a huge personell cut if the need arises

What part of that nuclear plant goes to your schools? I would guess a big portion and not many towns can match that type of income.

[Ernest T Bass]

Originally posted by RoyceTTU
What part of that nuclear plant goes to your schools? I would guess a big portion and not many towns can match that type of income.

After a certain point, it all goes to the state in the name of Robin Hood.

[GrTigers6]

Originally posted by RoyceTTU
What part of that nuclear plant goes to your schools? I would guess a big portion and not many towns can match that type of income. It used to but since robin hood they dont give out as much

[LHSEagleFan]

Wouldn't it make sense to legalize casino gambling , tax the heck out of it and earmark all the tax revenue to education. Go to any casino in Louisiana or Okla. and count the Texas plates on the cars and all the tour buses. All of that Texas money is going to those states.

[Blastoderm55]

Originally posted by LHSEagleFan
Wouldn't it make sense to legalize casino gambling , tax the heck out of it and earmark all the tax revenue to education. Go to any casino in Louisiana or Okla. and count the Texas plates on the cars and all the tour buses. All of that Texas money is going to those states.

Probably, but any companies coming would probably want tax incentives to setup shop. Then cities, counties and the state itself has to bend over and take it so that the companies will come in. Its like what happens when Wal-Mart enters a market. Oh sure, they'll create 200 new jobs. Forget that the taxing entities give up revenues, real wages drop, and locally owned shops board up and lay off their staffs.

To encourage economic development, let's abandon the franchise tax (all 1% of it), provide tax incentives for jobs created, abandon tax abatements and roll the dice. Our elected officials can't let corporations hold our state hostage forever.

[rancher]

Face facts, school districts are bloated. They need to cut, I know several districts where the coaches do not teach but a class or two. Several Head Coaches/AD teach nothing and make 85,000+. Years ago the head coach taught at least a couple of PE classes. The education budget makes up 50% of the state budget. Texas is 28 BILLION IN THE HOLE. Dont raise my property taxes, they are high enough. Remember sports are EXTRA and not required. How about a user fee for those who play. Fact in the last 10 years, spending on education has gone up 80%. Enough is Enough.

[WildTexan972]

Originally posted by Trench Warrior
Correct me if I am wrong, but wasn't the revenue from the lottery supposed to be able to fully fund education. it was not passed to "fully fund education".....it was passed saying all the profits would go to education....there is a ginormous difference....


if they put a few casinos around the state at high tax rates, there would be another $billion a year to use......and cut so dang many "administrators" from sitting in offices pushing papers around....and much of this would be solved....


and cut girls sports.....they are unnecessary....

[YTBulldogs]

Legalize prostitution and weed, then tax it. We'll all have turf fields for football, softball and baseball with jumbotron scoreboards.

You can't stop it. Might as well benefit from it.

[YTBulldogs]

If you are going to tax, tax everyone and not just the home owners. Damn renters, always getting off easy.:p

[rancher]

Casinos will never happen in Texas, not home of Baylor Univ. and the Mega Churches. Just pay those high dollar preachers like Ed Young in Grapevine so he can fly around on that church plane. I think it was Channel 8 in Dallas last year had a great investigative report on how he was fleecing the flock.

[wildstangs]

Lot of uncertainty going around Texas school districts. We absorbed quite a few positions, and anyone that quits/retires/moves on this year will most likely not be replaced. More work for the rest of us, but thankful to have a job!

[Phil C]

The thing also to remember the State is going to try hard to pass on services and the costs to local governments. In fact they are trying to get our appraisal district to raise values and these would be inflated as our county has not had any growth or industry expansion and lost our naval base. It is obvious the State wants the locals to have more revenues so the costs and services can be passed on. Hopefully this won't fool people.

[crabman]

Here are a few numbers. I keep hearing $27 Billion for the biennium but on here it keeps being mentioned as $31 billion. Call it $31 billion. What is that made up of? $11 billion was given to Texas in stimulus money. About $14 billion was offered to Texas but $3 billion of it had strings attached. We took the $11 billion. THat was one shot money. ONe and done. The newspapers and doomsayers added in that $11 billion and think we need to continue to spend it every year. We don't. It's out. $4 billion is the budget overage from the last biennium when tax revenues fell short. We owe that money but it is not really part of the new biannual budget. That means we are really about $16 billion short or $8 billion per year. A lot of that is due to declining revenues due to the economy and some of it is due to the budget increasing because of population growth. Rick Perry said it best. "WE don't have a budget deficit. We have $76.5 billion dollars and we just need to figure out how to spend it". That is a simple explanation but it is true. In Texas, outlays cannot exceed revenue. The good news is that Susan Combs is very, very conservative in doing the estimates on budget revenues. WE have made the turn in Texas and revenues should be substantially higher this year than last.

Just my thoughts on the subject. I know my representative and senator quite well. While they are working diligently, they are not in panic mode. I would rather be in Texas than anywhere else.

[Blastoderm55]

Originally posted by crabman
Here are a few numbers. I keep hearing $27 Billion for the biennium but on here it keeps being mentioned as $31 billion. Call it $31 billion. What is that made up of? $11 billion was given to Texas in stimulus money. About $14 billion was offered to Texas but $3 billion of it had strings attached. We took the $11 billion. THat was one shot money. ONe and done. The newspapers and doomsayers added in that $11 billion and think we need to continue to spend it every year. We don't. It's out. $4 billion is the budget overage from the last biennium when tax revenues fell short. We owe that money but it is not really part of the new biannual budget. That means we are really about $16 billion short or $8 billion per year. A lot of that is due to declining revenues due to the economy and some of it is due to the budget increasing because of population growth. Rick Perry said it best. "WE don't have a budget deficit. We have $76.5 billion dollars and we just need to figure out how to spend it". That is a simple explanation but it is true. In Texas, outlays cannot exceed revenue. The good news is that Susan Combs is very, very conservative in doing the estimates on budget revenues. WE have made the turn in Texas and revenues should be substantially higher this year than last.

Just my thoughts on the subject. I know my representative and senator quite well. While they are working diligently, they are not in panic mode. I would rather be in Texas than anywhere else.

All very good information, but if they're not in panic mode, why would they even mention the topic of closing four community colleges? That would lead to the loss of many jobs, not to mention the loss of the positive economic impact a community college can have in a community with regard to workforce training. Even if it doesn't come to fruition, I think it delivers a powerful message and one that has hit home for many households across the state.

[Ernest T Bass]

Originally posted by crabman
While they are working diligently, they are not in panic mode.

Of course they're not. No one holds their fates in their hands.

[Buckeye1980]

It is not just school budgets being set back. I have seen first hand how the new budget will affect criminal justice. For example, in the new proposed budget funding for felony probation office will be cut in half and the local offices will recieve NO state funding at all. You did not read that wrong , NONE at all. What the legislature needs to understand is if you make a cut that large , you lose probation officers and fewer defendant will recieve probation and more will be revoked or sent straight to county jail and/or prison. The cost to house an inmate in county jail is about $40-50 per day,and in prison an average of $300 per day. The cost to supervise a probationer is about $1.00 per day. A defendant on probation is also paying fines, working and paying taxes and being at the very least ,semi-productive in the community. But in jail or prison , the is no possibility of being productive. Under the new proposed budget, rehab facilities will be a thing of the past. I understand there must be cuts, but the legislature must look at the big picture. The canidattes ran on the promise of no new or higher taxes, and they plan on keeping that promise but not raising taxes on the state levels and causing county and city The the state reps can say WE did not raise your taxes , they did it .

[RoyceTTU]

Originally posted by Buckeye1980
It is not just school budgets being set back. I have seen first hand how the new budget will affect criminal justice. For example, in the new proposed budget funding for felony probation office will be cut in half and the local offices will recieve NO state funding at all. You did not read that wrong , NONE at all. What the legislature needs to understand is if you make a cut that large , you lose probation officers and fewer defendant will recieve probation and more will be revoked or sent straight to county jail and/or prison. The cost to house an inmate in county jail is about $40-50 per day,and in prison an average of $300 per day. The cost to supervise a probationer is about $1.00 per day. A defendant on probation is also paying fines, working and paying taxes and being at the very least ,semi-productive in the community. But in jail or prison , the is no possibility of being productive. Under the new proposed budget, rehab facilities will be a thing of the past. I understand there must be cuts, but the legislature must look at the big picture. The canidattes ran on the promise of no new or higher taxes, and they plan on keeping that promise but not raising taxes on the state levels and causing county and city The the state reps can say WE did not raise your taxes , they did it .

Your post made me think of something. I wonder what happens to the TYC school teachers? They are mostly trimmed down to core curriculum already on the teacher side. My guess is a facility like that would/should be trimmed form the top down but that isn't how it typically is done.

[rancher]

Everyone's ox is going to be gored in this years session and budget. The good ol days of the last few years are going to be gone for a number of teacher and coaches, with the number of cuts going to happen at local school districts, better hope for a job. This is the same with all agencies that rely on state funding. Attached is a link that school supt. look at daily for all that is happening in eduction across the state. It is open to the school finance section.

http://www.texasisd.com/cat_index_25.shtml

[RoyceTTU]

Originally posted by rancher
Everyone's ox is going to be gored in this years session and budget. The good ol days of the last few years are going to be gone for a number of teacher and coaches, with the number of cuts going to happen at local school districts, better hope for a job. This is the same with all agencies that rely on state funding. Attached is a link that school supt. look at daily for all that is happening in eduction across the state. It is open to the school finance section.

http://www.texasisd.com/cat_index_25.shtml

From some of the headlines of your link

"Abilene ISD works to trim special ed staff, avoid layoffs in coming year" - This is a dang shame. Of all places to cut this seems like the worse.

[NastySlot]

Originally posted by RoyceTTU
From some of the headlines of your link

"Abilene ISD works to trim special ed staff, avoid layoffs in coming year" - This is a dang shame. Of all places to cut this seems like the worse.


my first guess with those cuts...they won' t be with teachers....but with para professionals............special ed. depts tend have a lot of aids. but thats because of the regulations and rules set up by those same people that can't even get a budget(funding) right for education (but they sure work hard and throw a lot weight around when universities start talking about leaving conferences etc.).

[Ernest T Bass]

Bottom line for districts is TEA rating, and what we're calling "special ed", isn't included there at all.

[rancher]

Remember a few years ago when they deregulated the colleges, cost have now gone out of sight. Same thing when they dereglated the home insurance companies. Cost now out of sight. I remember the REPUBLICANS SAYING THIS WILL RESULT IN LOWER COST TO ALL TEXANS. Now the lowest paid employees of the school districts are about to get the ax. Seems like time for another change.

[rancher]

I can tell you this, Sentator Dan Patrick has filed a bill that will limit the amount of tax payers money a school district can spend on a bond election for stadiums and scoreboards. He has vowed there will never again be a Berry Center built with taxpayer money.

[GrTigers6]

Originally posted by rancher
I can tell you this, Sentator Dan Patrick has filed a bill that will limit the amount of tax payers money a school district can spend on a bond election for stadiums and scoreboards. He has vowed there will never again be a Berry Center built with taxpayer money. If you eliminate athletics than you will have a very hard time keeping kids in school and motivated to pass.
Thats what will happen if you stop using taxpayer money to build stadiums and scoreboards. Schools wont have the money otherwise. Plus athletics is an added income for the schools.

[Ernest T Bass]

Originally posted by GrTigers6
If you eliminate athletics than you will have a very hard time keeping kids in school and motivated to pass.
Thats what will happen if you stop using taxpayer money to build stadiums and scoreboards. Schools wont have the money otherwise. Plus athletics is an added income for the schools.

Didn't say he would elminate athletics. The Berry Center is outrageous. But, it's used by outside entities alot and it does bring alot of revenue for CFISD. But it is pretty crazy.
Athletics do not bring in money. That is a myth. If your athletic dept breaks even, you're doing VERY good.

[NastySlot]

Originally posted by GrTigers6
If you eliminate athletics than you will have a very hard time keeping kids in school and motivated to pass.
Thats what will happen if you stop using taxpayer money to build stadiums and scoreboards. Schools wont have the money otherwise. Plus athletics is an added income for the schools.


I agree with some things you've said but i don't know about added income.


nothing wrong with building stadiums and facilities but there are problems with the size and amendities(sp)...of the stadiums.....turf ...four story press boxes(never figured out why)....jumbotrons............it's football the action takes place on the field....spectators should go to watch the game and brag about the kids playing not the stadiums they play in ................some of the districts have gone way overboard with stadiums........while schools in same district might even have campuses with portables..classrooms not connected to the latest tech.

now I am all for nice things.... we do this for the education (and athletics is part) for the kids (and our country's future).

[raider red 2000]

Originally posted by RoyceTTU
From some of the headlines of your link

"Abilene ISD works to trim special ed staff, avoid layoffs in coming year" - This is a dang shame. Of all places to cut this seems like the worse.

another cut that effects me directly is cutting pre-K. i have a kid that will be 4 in May and I was ready to quit paying the baby sitter.

[NastySlot]

there are many ways to cut back in districts..............transportation is one........ever notice how many buses run in the summer for those kids in summer school.......that s a waste of money.

i can see those days of meals on district going by the wayside........our district doesn't feed the kids anymore....teachers and coaches that attend professional-development workshops and clinics....don't get meal money and no overnight stays if in Austin or San Antonio (each an hour from here).

[GrTigers6]

Originally posted by Ernest T Bass
Didn't say he would elminate athletics. The Berry Center is outrageous. But, it's used by outside entities alot and it does bring alot of revenue for CFISD. But it is pretty crazy.
Athletics do not bring in money. That is a myth. If your athletic dept breaks even, you're doing VERY good. If the schools cant use tax payer funds then they wont be able to build facilities.
Plus if athletic events didnt produce some sort of income than why are schools so anxious to host playoff games.If you only broke even then its not worth the effort.

[GrTigers6]

Originally posted by NastySlot
I agree with some things you've said but i don't know about added income.


nothing wrong with building stadiums and facilities but there are problems with the size and amendities(sp)...of the stadiums.....turf ...four story press boxes(never figured out why)....jumbotrons............it's football the action takes place on the field....spectators should go to watch the game and brag about the kids playing not the stadiums they play in ................some of the districts have gone way overboard with stadiums........while schools in same district might even have campuses with portables..classrooms not connected to the latest tech.

now I am all for nice things.... we do this for the education (and athletics is part) for the kids (and our country's future). The reason for all the updated stuff is to attract playoff teams and also to bring in recruits, that are trying to decide between you and a school less fortunate.

[GrTigers6]

Originally posted by NastySlot
there are many ways to cut back in districts..............transportation is one........ever notice how many buses run in the summer for those kids in summer school.......that s a waste of money.

i can see those days of meals on district going by the wayside........our district doesn't feed the kids anymore....teachers and coaches that attend professional-development workshops and clinics....don't get meal money and no overnight stays if in Austin or San Antonio (each an hour from here). Buses are the only means for those kids to get to school

[Ernest T Bass]

Originally posted by GrTigers6
If the schools cant use tax payer funds then they wont be able to build facilities.
Plus if athletic events didnt produce some sort of income than why are schools so anxious to host playoff games.If you only broke even then its not worth the effort.

He didn't say they couldn't use tax money, he said it would be limited as to how much they can use. Might have to go back to building stadiums again instead of palaces. Im fine with that.
Athletic programs themselves don't produce any profit for the district. A very successful program will break even, but most don't do that. You're right, it's not worth it if profit is the motivating factor. But in education, money is never the motivating factor...at least up until now. That may be changing quickly.

[GrTigers6]

Isnt the whole idea of bond money voted on by the tax payers? If they vote for it then it shouldnt matter what some representative's opinions are.:thinking:

[GrTigers6]

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Ernest T Bass
[B]He didn't say they couldn't use tax money
Sorry Misread that part

[Black_Magic]

Originally posted by GrTigers6
Isnt the whole idea of bond money voted on by the tax payers? If they vote for it then it shouldnt matter what some representative's opinions are.:thinking: thats what I thought. If the taxpayers want to have a bond election then isnt it paid for by those taxpayers and not the school fund....:thinking:

[NastySlot]

Originally posted by GrTigers6
Buses are the only means for those kids to get to school

right....but why the heck provide transportation for summer school?

[NastySlot]

Originally posted by GrTigers6
If the schools cant use tax payer funds then they wont be able to build facilities.
Plus if athletic events didnt produce some sort of income than why are schools so anxious to host playoff games.If you only broke even then its not worth the effort.


not much income produce...its all about show when hosting...now the community might make some money....resturants, shops and lodging.

[NastySlot]

Originally posted by GrTigers6
The reason for all the updated stuff is to attract playoff teams and also to bring in recruits, that are trying to decide between you and a school less fortunate.

recruits?

[GrTigers6]

Originally posted by NastySlot
recruits? Students moving into the district.
For example I moved from West Columbia with my job to granbury, However granbury is too big for my taste so we started looking at towns around the area. Glen Rose, Hico, Tolar. Glen Rose by far had the best facilities, obviously. SO thats where we decided to move to.

[NastySlot]

Originally posted by GrTigers6
Students moving into the district.
For example I moved from West Columbia with my job to granbury, However granbury is too big for my taste so we started looking at towns around the area. Glen Rose, Hico, Tolar. Glen Rose by far had the best facilities, obviously. SO thats where we decided to move to.


oh i see.

[rancher]

Bond elections are a joke, the school district will put the bond election at a time when they know the least amount of voters will show up to the polls. They also will form the pol. actions groups which are nothing more than those who have an interest to see the stadium or facilities built, such as the contractors, engineers, arch. etc. If it dont pass, they are out of work. The schools district then strong arm all of the employees to have everyone vote for it or else. As a result you wind up like Katy, highest tax rate in the state and field turf on all of the high school practice fields.

[Black_Magic]

BUT OUR GOVENOR SAID TEXAS WAS IN GREAT SHAPE. TURNED DOWN FEDERAL STIMULUS MONEY.... Sure Glad he is back in office and so honest

[theville]

Originally posted by Black_Magic
BUT OUR GOVENOR SAID TEXAS WAS IN GREAT SHAPE. TURNED DOWN FEDERAL STIMULUS MONEY.... Sure Glad he is back in office and so honest

That guy doesnt give 2 s***s about education.

I hate that man. Probably why I will be out of a teaching job next year.

[DDBooger]

Originally posted by Black_Magic
BUT OUR GOVENOR SAID TEXAS WAS IN GREAT SHAPE. TURNED DOWN FEDERAL STIMULUS MONEY.... Sure Glad he is back in office and so honest He didn't turn it down, the day he started a petition titled "No Government Bailouts" he requested federal funds that eventually paid 97% of the budget shortfall in fiscal 2010.

[GrTigers6]

Originally posted by rancher
Bond elections are a joke, the school district will put the bond election at a time when they know the least amount of voters will show up to the polls. They also will form the pol. actions groups which are nothing more than those who have an interest to see the stadium or facilities built, such as the contractors, engineers, arch. etc. If it dont pass, they are out of work. The schools district then strong arm all of the employees to have everyone vote for it or else. As a result you wind up like Katy, highest tax rate in the state and field turf on all of the high school practice fields. They just dont know how to get a bond passed. You give them the info and show them that the tax rates will not be raised to pay for it. :D
its a win win

[garciap77]

Originally posted by Black_Magic
Wait a Second!!. As I remember it Our Great Govenor stated All during the last election season and Even Bragged about how Great Texas has done during the recession... Now it looks like he Lied???:thinking: I wish they would make up thier mind.. Is the state doing good or not Govenor?? Guess its clear he lied to help get re elected. Did he refuse to take stimulus money??:thinking:

Perry should be fired! He has done a terrible job and is a career politician! Why do we keep voting for politicians who cannot perform their jobs in a reasonable matter? :mad:

[garciap77]

Originally posted by Black_Magic
BUT OUR GOVENOR SAID TEXAS WAS IN GREAT SHAPE. TURNED DOWN FEDERAL STIMULUS MONEY.... Sure Glad he is back in office and so honest

BM he is preparing himself for the White House! GOD, Help us!

[Blastoderm55]

Originally posted by garciap77
Perry should be fired! He has done a terrible job and is a career politician! Why do we keep voting for politicians who cannot perform their jobs in a reasonable matter? :mad:

We're sort of becoming notorious for it, aren't we? :doh:

http://www.snopes.com/photos/politics/graphics/perry.jpg

[GreenMonster]

By refusing to raise taxes and refusing to dip into the rainy day fund our State legislators are making a very loud announcement that they are more interested in keeping their campaign promises to save their own positions of power and could care less how many people get laid off and have to join the welfare lines because of the lack of jobs available. History has proven that each and every financial crisis our country has ever faced was ended with JOBS and here our State leaders are slashing jobs which will only further damage our economy. How much of the unemployment related costs are they adding to the budget for the fallout that will occur when they cut these jobs to "save" money? Probably none. Therefore we will probably be facing another crisis 2 years from now because instead of trying to fix the problem they only want to put a band aid on it and hope it heals itself. These guys need to pull their heads out of the sand and realize just how many problems they will be creating by only cutting and not taxing. There needs to be give and take. I for one would rather pay higher taxes and still have a job than lose my job and not be able to pay my taxes. I don't have all the answers, but it doesn't take a genius to see how drastic budget cuts without an influx of additional funds only makes the problems larger. C'mon Texans, stand up and tell your representatives to make it right!

[GreenMonster]

Originally posted by garciap77
Perry should be fired! He has done a terrible job and is a career politician! Why do we keep voting for politicians who cannot perform their jobs in a reasonable matter? :mad: I find it rather despicable that the governor hosts a multi-million dollar Inaugural celebration and has the proposed budget release delayed to just shy of midnight so that he can party down before the dreadful news hit the streets. I also find it despicable that we are paying an extreme amount of rent for Perry to live in the lap of luxury while the Governor's Mansion is getting a multi-million dollar face lift (I do not argue that the mansion needed updating, but find a reasonable rental or better yet just buy him a house and sell it when he moves out to limit OUR losses.) Last but not least, I find it despicable that when every department of the state is taking massive body blows the Governor's full time staff will be increasing from 120 to 135! :mad: I have friends and neighbors that will be losing their jobs and we are giving our leader an additional 15 full time employees so they can figure out how to further take advantage of Texans. Pathetic! If everyone else in government is being slashed 15-25% then slash the governor's office as well.

[YTBulldogs]

Originally posted by GreenMonster
By refusing to raise taxes and refusing to dip into the rainy day fund our State legislators are making a very loud announcement that they are more interested in keeping their campaign promises to save their own positions of power and could care less how many people get laid off and have to join the welfare lines because of the lack of jobs available. History has proven that each and every financial crisis our country has ever faced was ended with JOBS and here our State leaders are slashing jobs which will only further damage our economy. How much of the unemployment related costs are they adding to the budget for the fallout that will occur when they cut these jobs to "save" money? Probably none. Therefore we will probably be facing another crisis 2 years from now because instead of trying to fix the problem they only want to put a band aid on it and hope it heals itself. These guys need to pull their heads out of the sand and realize just how many problems they will be creating by only cutting and not taxing. There needs to be give and take. I for one would rather pay higher taxes and still have a job than lose my job and not be able to pay my taxes. I don't have all the answers, but it doesn't take a genius to see how drastic budget cuts without an influx of additional funds only makes the problems larger. C'mon Texans, stand up and tell your representatives to make it right!

You don't create jobs by taxing more. Ask Cali that.

Cut welfare, for those abusing it and getting a free ride and add that money to education. That's a better place to start I say then tax those already taxed too much. Instead of preventing those getting handouts illegally, people say tax those that follow the law. I don't get it. Control the border too, would help reduce the debt. Amazing how many get free health care, school lunches and whatever else you can get for free. That, counts big time towards that 10 billion debt. Someone has to pay it for them. Stop the abuse, and we'd have a surplus.

[rancher]

Texas has approx. 600,000 public school employes. Of this approx 300,000 are teachers. The ones who get laidoff are not going to be the teachers, it is going to be the under paid staff that makes the school run. Texas school are bloated, cut the waste at the top and yes coaches will have to teach a few extra classes. Hey have those head coaches teach a class or two like they use too.

[YTBulldogs]

Originally posted by rancher
Texas has approx. 600,000 public school employes. Of this approx 300,000 are teachers. The ones who get laidoff are not going to be the teachers, it is going to be the under paid staff that makes the school run. Texas school are bloated, cut the waste at the top and yes coaches will have to teach a few extra classes. Hey have those head coaches teach a class or two like they use too.

I second that. Hey, how about the gov spend a tad under what they take in? Like we do. Stop spending what you don't have. We might have to tighten our belts for several years, but---you must live within a budget to get out of this mess. This is just at the state level. Lord, the National debt, it will be harder and longer---but, they can't spend more than they take in. That's just to stay were we are. To cut that gazillion debt figure, you'll have to cut programs. I apologize to the youth of today, for allowing our government (both sides) to put them behind the 8ball in debt. We should be ashamed.

[garciap77]

Originally posted by YTBulldogs
You don't create jobs by taxing more. Ask Cali that.

Cut welfare, for those abusing it and getting a free ride and add that money to education. That's a better place to start I say then tax those already taxed too much. Instead of preventing those getting handouts illegally, people say tax those that follow the law. I don't get it. Control the border too, would help reduce the debt. Amazing how many get free health care, school lunches and whatever else you can get for free. That, counts big time towards that 10 billion debt. Someone has to pay it for them. Stop the abuse, and we'd have a surplus.


Yeah! And we should start with the Wealthy which are the biggest “Free Riders” in our Nation!

Let everyone pay taxes! If you make $1.00 you pay tax on that dollar and if you make $1,000,000,000.00 you pay tax on the Billion! Want to cry about paying too much tax when you make your Billion, then make less money!

[bigwood33]

Originally posted by garciap77
Yeah! And we should start with the Wealthy which are the biggest “Free Riders” in our Nation!

Let everyone pay taxes! If you make $1.00 you pay tax on that dollar and if you make $1,000,000,000.00 you pay tax on the Billion! Want to cry about paying too much tax when you make your Billion, then make less money!
Before you start popping off about "Free Riders" you might want to check the facts. For the tax year 2008 the top 1% earners in our country pay 38% of the total income taxes collected. The top 5% pay 59% of the total income tax collected. People who think that the rich don't pay taxes don't know "come here from 'sic 'em".
http://www.ntu.org/tax-basics/who-pays-income-taxes.html

Of course you could be joking but it sure didn't read like it.

[Additup]

Just saw online where $3.9 billion is spent in Texas annually to educate children of illegal immigrants. I need to verify that number though.

Texas law says we educate any kid that shows up even if they're not a legal citizen. It may be time to look at a law that is costing us that much.

[YTBulldogs]

Originally posted by garciap77
Yeah! And we should start with the Wealthy which are the biggest “Free Riders” in our Nation!

Let everyone pay taxes! If you make $1.00 you pay tax on that dollar and if you make $1,000,000,000.00 you pay tax on the Billion! Want to cry about paying too much tax when you make your Billion, then make less money!

Why hate on those who are successful? More power to them. Plus, I never knew a poor man to hire anyone. The rich are the ones investing and creating business, that in return hires ya. They pay their fair share then some I believe.

[YTBulldogs]

Originally posted by Additup
Just saw online where $3.9 billion is spent in Texas annually to educate children of illegal immigrants. I need to verify that number though.

Texas law says we educate any kid that shows up even if they're not a legal citizen. It may be time to look at a law that is costing us that much.

Now, figure their healthcare cost annually. And, those who are cheating the welfare system. You just recouped most of your debt right there. Now, get the gov to stop spending what they don't have---you'll have a surplus.

[garciap77]

Originally posted by YTBulldogs
Why hate on those who are successful? More power to them. Plus, I never knew a poor man to hire anyone. The rich are the ones investing and creating business, that in return hires ya. They pay their fair share then some I believe.

I'm not hating! I have no problem with success. Just want them to pay their fair share! The rich man would not be rich if he had no one to work for him. And the rich also use tax payer’s money to invest and hire as well! All I’m saying is let’s be fair across the board.

[garciap77]

Originally posted by bigwood33
Before you start popping off about "Free Riders" you might want to check the facts. For the tax year 2008 the top 1% earners in our country pay 38% of the total income taxes collected. The top 5% pay 59% of the total income tax collected. People who think that the rich don't pay taxes don't know "come here from 'sic 'em".
http://www.ntu.org/tax-basics/who-pays-income-taxes.html

Of course you could be joking but it sure didn't read like it.
I don’t need to check the facts. The media tells us at least once a week, “The Top 1% earners in our country pay 38% of the total income taxes”. I'm looking for a flat tax across the board and everyone pays no matter how much you make. If you make a billion you are going to pay more, but it will still be the same percentage a person making $1.00. We just need to figure out what the percentage needs to be to stay within budget. Let’s say everyone pays 15%. So, you make 10K a year you pay $1,500.00 for the year. If you make 1,000,000.00 you pay $150,000.00.

[bigwood33]

Originally posted by garciap77
I don’t need to check the facts. The media tells us at least once a week, “The Top 1% earners in our country pay 38% of the total income taxes”. I'm looking for a flat tax across the board and everyone pays no matter how much you make. If you make a billion you are going to pay more, but it will still be the same percentage a person making $1.00. We just need to figure out what the percentage needs to be to stay within budget. Let’s say everyone pays 15%. So, you make 10K a year you pay $1,500.00 for the year. If you make 1,000,000.00 you pay $150,000.00.
I am not against a Flat Tax, but I prefer a National Sales Tax. With a National Sales Tax even criminals and people who work for cash would have to pay. It would be the most inclusive tax option. You could also put the IRS out of business.

[garciap77]

Originally posted by bigwood33
I am not against a Flat Tax, but I prefer a National Sales Tax. With a National Sales Tax even criminals and people who work for cash would have to pay. It would be the most inclusive tax option. You could also put the IRS out of business.

Why not both? And how would criminals pay it?

[Blastoderm55]

Originally posted by garciap77
Why not both? And how would criminals pay it?

Whenever they make purchases from businesses for normal goods and services.

[bigwood33]

Originally posted by Blastoderm55
Whenever they make purchases from businesses for normal goods and services.
Exactly. If a drug dealer, who would never pay payroll taxes under any system, purchases a home, boat, lawn mower, big screen tv, etc, he would pay. The people who spend the most will pay the most tax, pretty simple. Again, killing the IRS would be an added bonus. States already collect sales tax so it would be easy for them to just send the federal gov their part. By eliminating the HUGE IRS, the taxpayers will save hundreds of millions a year. That alone would help reduce the deficit.

[garciap77]

Originally posted by Blastoderm55
Whenever they make purchases from businesses for normal goods and services.

LOL I guess I was trying to visualize a criminal buying his drugs or weapon of choice and forgot about the obvious. Can both work in unison?

[YTBulldogs]

This might help:

STOP SPENDING WHAT YOU DON'T HAVE.

Live within your means.

[steerz2010]

Originally posted by rancher
Face facts, school districts are bloated. They need to cut, I know several districts where the coaches do not teach but a class or two. Several Head Coaches/AD teach nothing and make 85,000+. Years ago the head coach taught at least a couple of PE classes. The education budget makes up 50% of the state budget. Texas is 28 BILLION IN THE HOLE. Dont raise my property taxes, they are high enough. Remember sports are EXTRA and not required. How about a user fee for those who play. Fact in the last 10 years, spending on education has gone up 80%. Enough is Enough.


amen brother!

[steerz2010]

Originally posted by crabman
... Rick Perry said it best. "WE don't have a budget deficit. We have $76.5 billion dollars and we just need to figure out how to spend it".

Well said... I wish the federal government would operate like that..

[steerz2010]

Originally posted by rancher
Bond elections are a joke, the school district will put the bond election at a time when they know the least amount of voters will show up to the polls. They also will form the pol. actions groups which are nothing more than those who have an interest to see the stadium or facilities built, such as the contractors, engineers, arch. etc. If it dont pass, they are out of work. The schools district then strong arm all of the employees to have everyone vote for it or else. As a result you wind up like Katy, highest tax rate in the state and field turf on all of the high school practice fields.

preach on brother from another mother...

[Additup]

Originally posted by YTBulldogs
This might help:

STOP SPENDING WHAT YOU DON'T HAVE.

Live within your means.

Gotta love SNL
http://www.hulu.com/watch/1389/saturday-night-live-dont-buy-stuff

"unique new program for managing your debt - It's called don't buy stuff you can't afford"

"let's say I don't have enough money to buy something - should I buy it anyway?" "Noooo"

[rancher]

That is a GREAT LINK, A BIG TIP OF MY 10XXX RESISTOL TO YOU FOR FINDING IT. THIS SHOULD BE REQUIRED VIEWING OF ALL SUPT.S AND SCHOOL BOARDS IN THE STATE. ALSO A REQUIRED COURSE TO OBTAIN THE SUPT. CERTIFICATION, SHOULD BE A DAVE RAMSEY COURSE ON BUDGETS AND MONEY.

[jambo67]

The best solution is seal the the freaking border. Los Angeles just released a report that LA county alone spent 600 million educating and medicating illegals. A third of all inmates in Texas prisons are illegal as well and zaps the crap out of every county just to prosecute these douche nozzles that laugh at our weak criminal justice system. The State's general fund is a joke to them because in their world crime pays at your expense. It may sound politicaly incorrect or whatever but the cost is strapping every distict in order to make a bunch of milquetoast politicians feel good. Check with your disrict and find out how much money is spent on "free" meals and how much each child is afforded already with LoneStar "benefits" that already pays for food, it's like the State charging itself twice for meals. Then compare your the Net Vs Your gross on your check. If the head coach in your town had that kind of deficit you'd fire him in a second.

[PPHSfan]

"seal the borders"?

That's funny. We can't even stop people from driving 20 mph over the speed limit. We can't stop the drugs from coming into this country. We can't stop our own citizens from abusing the system. We can't stop idiots from getting drunk and killing people with a car, and you think we can stop people from walking across a border?

This may be the funniest post ever made on the downlow.

[rancher]

Here is one that just appeared this morning, FURLOWS AND PAY CUTS FOR TEACHERS. GOOD ARTICLE, IF CITY OF HOUSTON EMPLOYEES CAN FURLOW, TEACHERS CAN TOO.

http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/metropolitan/7405396.html

[rancher]

I also just heard on KRLD out of Dallas that Irving ISD is going to layoff 240 first year teachers. They are also going to cut one assistant principal at each school. I also found a link. Get those coaches back to teaching like they use too.

http://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/news/2011/01/25/irving-isd-plans-layoffs.html

[RoyceTTU]

I just heard on the radio that student steroid testing is going to stop because they are catching very few kids and it is costing so much.

I see both sides to this argument- it is expensive but the reason they don't catch kids is because the kids know they'll get caught.

[Ernest T Bass]

Originally posted by rancher
I also just heard on KRLD out of Dallas that Irving ISD is going to layoff 240 first year teachers. They are also going to cut one assistant principal at each school. I also found a link. Get those coaches back to teaching like they use too.

http://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/news/2011/01/25/irving-isd-plans-layoffs.html

Head coaches are the only ones who don't teach. That's one per school.

[buff4ever]

Originally posted by Ernest T Bass
Head coaches are the only ones who don't teach. That's one per school.

This is typically correct statement, but not at all schools. We have one that doesn't have classroom class or gym class. Maybe he should be worried.

[PPHSfan]

Originally posted by buff4ever
This is typically correct statement, but not at all schools. We have one that doesn't have classroom class or gym class. Maybe he should be worried.

Yeah. He probably only works 80 hrs a week too. He may be in trouble.

[Ernest T Bass]

Originally posted by PPHSfan
Yeah. He probably only works 80 hrs a week too. He may be in trouble.

We all may be in trouble. Evidently, my 80 hour work week doesn't mean much. :(

[GreenMonster]

Originally posted by YTBulldogs
You don't create jobs by taxing more. Ask Cali that.

Cut welfare, for those abusing it and getting a free ride and add that money to education. That's a better place to start I say then tax those already taxed too much. Instead of preventing those getting handouts illegally, people say tax those that follow the law. I don't get it. Control the border too, would help reduce the debt. Amazing how many get free health care, school lunches and whatever else you can get for free. That, counts big time towards that 10 billion debt. Someone has to pay it for them. Stop the abuse, and we'd have a surplus.

I disagree with that. You lower taxes on the business man to enable him to put that money towards making money. The more business he drums up the more people he will need to run that business, which equals more jobs. Where you raise taxes is on the individual. This would further encourage the business man to put his money back into his business and not into his pocket. Much of this issue goes back to the legislature changing the way we finance schools. Local property tax rates are capped at $1 per $100 dollar evaluation meaning that you would pay 1% of what the tax appraisal is on your property. If said property is valued at $100k by the county tax appraisal district then the tax on that property would be $1000 etc. This was a drastic drop from previous rates which most were paying closer to 1.5%. They were forced to make changes because the Robin Hood Plan was ruled unconstitutional by the US Supreme Court. Also in that legislation to cap tax rates the state capped the amount of money that they would send to schools. This was their idea of how to control school expenses on their end. Unfortunately that did not take into account how our schools are growing in numbers and combined with the drop in tax revenue and inflation on almost everything from fuel to electricity to paper left the state coffers bare. The school systems knew all along that piece of legislation wasn't going to work. There were no concessions for inflation whatsoever. Even if the state wasn't going broke schools were going to be in a heap of trouble in the very near future. The cap needs to be bumped up considerably to allow schools to set their own tax rate at a number that will allow them to operate in the black. 1.5% to 1.75% would be a good start. This puts more of the burden of education back onto the locals and would allow the state to kick in less funding. Another great way to boost school revenue without using state dollars would be to allow schools to add a 1% sales tax locally to fund extra curriculars, facility improvement, technology advancement, or just simply as a rainy day fund that would cover them in hard times like now.

[rancher]

Sir, there is a way that school districts can raise their tax rate, if they have not reached the cap, the board can raise it a certain %. If a district has reached the cap, or want to go above that %, they can simply go to the voters and ask the voters to approve a tax increase. You also need to go back and review you Eco. 101 notes, we are in a period of deflation. You can tell that simply by the prices of you most valuable asset, your home. They are going down, down and down. This results in lower appraisal on the tax base of the district. Look at the government CPI, it has not gone up, example social security recipients have not had a raise in two years. This again is an example of deflation. Deflation has only happen 4 in the history of our country. The last time it stated was in 1929. Each time you have a tax raise you are helping deflation further by taking money away from the consumer to spend. SCHOOL DISTRICTS ARE BLOATED, THEY NEED TO LIVE WITHIN THEIR MEANS. ALL BOARD MEMBERS SHOULD BE REQUIRED TO ATTEND A DAVE RAMSEY SEMINAR.

[garciap77]

DAVE RAMSEY should be our President.

[rancher]

HE WOULD GET MY VOTE. His motto, live within your means.

[rancher]

All of the state school supts. are in a meeting for the next two days in Austin to find out how far they will be bent over this year by Rick Perry. But if you think this year is going to be bad, wait till next year, school districts will have used their rainy day fund and will have to go to the taxpayer hat in hand for a major tax increase.

[garciap77]

Originally posted by rancher
All of the state school supts. are in a meeting for the next two days in Austin to find out how far they will be bent over this year by Rick Perry. But if you think this year is going to be bad, wait till next year, school districts will have used their rainy day fund and will have to go to the taxpayer hat in hand for a major tax increase.

We need to fired Perry and hired David Ramsey.

[Additup]

Originally posted by YTBulldogs
This might help:

STOP SPENDING WHAT YOU DON'T HAVE.

Live within your means.

http://www.hulu.com/watch/1389/saturday-night-live-dont-buy-stuff

funny because it's so true. love SNL.
"and where would you get this saavved money?"

[tigerfan99]

what is happening with all that money schools are suppose to be getting from the texas lottery

[GreenMonster]

Originally posted by tigerfan99
what is happening with all that money schools are suppose to be getting from the texas lottery Slick Rick hijacked those funds to pay for his Inauguration and the compound he is renting in Austin while the governor's mansion is renovated. By the way, those renovations were supposed to be completed some time ago.

[garciap77]

Originally posted by GreenMonster
Slick Rick hijacked those funds to pay for his Inauguration and the compound he is renting in Austin while the governor's mansion is renovated. By the way, those renovations were supposed to be completed some time ago.

Slickly Ricky is doing just a good job!:rolleyes: So, he'll probably be our next President!:(