Some simple research will allay many of the concerns of opponents of proposed budget increases for Hamilton County schools. The budget process does not amount to “throwing more money at the problem.” The process is research-based and thoughtful, with plenty of opportunities for community input. For anyone interested in the specific revisions, the information is found on the Hamilton County Department of Education website on the Budget Proposal page.
The idea of voluntary, cafeteria style school funding is already in place through privatization vehicles such as the private foundations formed to support suburban, white, middle-class and wealthy schools. The result is our two-tiered resource pool for funding local schools, and thus the two-tiered outcomes.
Some are concerned about the effect of the proposed budget increase on senior citizens. A tax relief program for local seniors has been in place for more than 40 years, and budget increase supporters are proposing even greater relief for seniors.
Opponents resort to false claims of “throwing money around” when they do not take the time to inform themselves and offer input as the budget process unfolds.
Ron Lowe