A+Message+to+Parents

=Dear Parents, Guardians, and Friends,= = = =As you may already know, Governor Corbett has proposed a budget that will severely impact public education. According to the Governor’s budget, public education will lose $1.5 Billion in funding, which will consequently affect ALL children in ALL schools. The Governor is also proposing that requirements for the teaching profession be decreased and those with business degrees can become superintendants. Seniority for teachers could be eliminated, making teachers at-will employees.= = = =What does this all mean?= =If the Governor’s budget passes, the poorest communities will experience the largest cuts and some public schools and/or districts may be eliminated, creating the need for mergers. We could be looking at an increase in classroom size, a decrease in one-to-one teacher/student instruction, the elimination of paraprofessionals (classroom aides) in the classroom, and most importantly, individuals with NO teacher training or experience could be “teaching” our children and the most at-risk children (including our children with special needs) may NOT receive the services that they need and deserve.= = = =Governor Corbett is in favor of charter schools, which are NOT obligated to follow special education regulations. Any student with an IEP or GIEP would NOT be provided with the services that are guaranteed by state and federal law in the public education system.= = = = OUR CHILDREN’S FUTURE, AND THEREFORE, THE FUTURE OF OUR NATION, IS AT STAKE. = = = = = = = =What can you do?= =Read about the actions of our legislators across the country regarding public education. Talk to those in public education to find out what is really happening in education and the classroom. Get to know the teachers and administrators who are dedicated to the academic, social, emotional, and behavioral success of all students. Write or e-mail your legislators asking them to support public education in rejecting the proposed Pennsylvania budget. Tell them about the progress that your children, grandchildren, etc. are making in public school. Tell them about the dedicated teachers who work diligently every day to provide opportunities for the students’ success. Post signs supporting public education in your yard or windows and ask your family and friends to do the same. Attend the rallies in support of public education as well as union workers. There is strength in numbers and power in the voices of those who experience the workings of public education daily…parents, students, families, friends, etc.= = = = TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE! =

=Download a copy of this letter here =

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