Frequently asked questions
Q
Will AP classes be eliminated as a result of funding cuts?
A: AP classes will not be eliminated due to funding cuts. The real problem is overcrowding. We live in a District of high achievers, so our AP and Honors classes attract more students. With fewer teachers to teach them, we will begin to see class sizes of 40 or more students in a class. Although it may be difficult to believe, there are already classes in some of our middle and high schools where there aren’t enough desks for each student. This is unacceptable!
Q
Are Our Teachers Making Sacrifices Along With The Rest Of Us?
A: Yes. The last raise our LVUSD teachers received was a 4% in 2007-08. In 2009-10, there was a 5.4% cut in pay. In addition to these cuts, teachers do not get paid for furlough days. Since 2006-07, their health insurance contribution from the District has been capped at $9800. With the annual rise in premiums, this means teachers are paying more; the cost to cover a family is averaging $7,000 out of pocket per year! In addition, as class sizes grow, teachers are required to spend even more time out of the classroom grading and preparing lessons. They truly are doing more with less! Consider this graph from the California Teacher’s Association:
Q
Doesn’t LVUSD already receive local funding?
A: Yes. In 2007, Las Virgenes voters approved the renewal of Measure “E,” which has supported high-quality education in our schools. This stable local funding has helped local schools retain teachers, keep class sizes as small as possible and protect our academic programs. Measure E will expire in 2015.
Q
If The District Is So Short On Funding, Why Is It Spending Money On New Construction At Our Schools?
A: Construction is being funded through taxpayer-approved bonds (Measure G), which can only be used for construction, infrastructure needs or technology hardware. State law expressly prohibits the District from using these funds on teacher salaries or operational or instructional expenses.