Washington State School Funding

[M_Demo_M]

In San Juan County, I just attended a school board meeting in which a huge budget
deficit was projected for next year.

The board and the district's superintendent put a lot of the blame on the State Legislature
and Governor for passing mandated but unfunded (by the state) cost of leaving increases
for teacher during the latest legislative sentence.
Also the legislature increased the amount of retirement for which school
districts were responsible (i.e. less money from the state).

While it was unclear exactly how much that was affecting our district's budget, they said
that it was causing a state wide budget short fall of 100 million dollars.

To be honest, I have not read the legislation the board was referring to. But if it's true, then
our Democratic Governor and Legislators have some 'splainin' to do. Passing on unfunded mandates
that make the State look like heroes but ultimately hurt the schools is disingenuous at best.

For our small district next year's financial situation will be painful, and we will lose a
significant number of teachers.

How is this affecting other districts (yours) in the state?


EDIT: I am looking into the board's claims to see if the State isn't simply being used as a foil.
So if anyone has more information that would help get a clearer picture on this I'd be appreciative.