“With public education already taking a massive hit of $3.5 billion in cuts this year, educators across the state are demanding additional revenues to prevent any more cuts to our students and schools. The nonpartisan state Legislative Analyst’s Office is now confirming what teachers have been saying for months – that California can’t solve the budget deficit without raising taxes.
“We hope lawmakers are jarred by the LAO's warning that the deficit will soar to $27.8 billion over the next 20 months. California educators warned that the irresponsible state budget, based on borrowing schemes and signed into law in September, would only lead to a more dire budget situation later on. That time is now here. Lawmakers and the governor must provide a real budget solution with ongoing and long-term funding for our schools so that all students can receive the quality education they want and deserve.”
“The governor’s proposal to make another $2.5 billion in midyear education cuts would create havoc with school district budgets and education programs already in place. Educators will fight any more cuts to our classrooms and our students. Cuts this year have already meant larger class sizes, the laying off of thousands of teachers and critical education support staff, and more gutting of art, music and vocational education programs.
"These cuts have consequences, and unfortunately right now, it is our students who are paying the price. California must do better. Our children deserve better. And our future depends on it."