June 28, 2006

 

BURLINGAME – Barbara E. Kerr, president of the 335,000-member California Teachers Association, issued this statement about the new state budget approved by lawmakers:

 

"The timely approval of the new state budget is good news for our public schools and students. School districts and teachers can now plan ahead. The nearly six percent cost-of-living- adjustment will allow local schools to restore funding to education programs that have been cut over the past few years and provide for salary increases.

 

"But there is more to be done. This budget is a down payment on the debt owed to our schools. Teachers will continue to work with the governor and the Legislature to ensure repayment of the $3 billion still owed to our schools under Proposition 98 and the lawsuit settlement agreement announced last month. That money will help our schools of greatest need reduce class sizes, improve teacher training and increase parental involvement."

 

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