Pushing for Funding for Our Schools

As the school year winds down, questions continue to emerge about what next year looks like without many answers, only hypotheticals. Will everyone need to wear a mask? Will we attend in groups and not full classes? Will we even go back? What is known, many districts are facing massive budget cuts due to expected losses in state funding.

Krystal AshCuthbert, a teacher in Scarborough and president of the local, is working with educators in the district to avoid proposed deep cuts-almost $2.7 million totaling almost 17 full-time positions. The proposal would increase class sizes and reduce critical supports for students.

“At a time when we should be adding staff to help manage the coronavirus and keep students Safe, we’re cutting staff.”

Krystal Ash-Cuthbert, Scarborough EA President

“At a time when we should be adding staff to help manage the coronavirus and keep students safe, we’re cutting staff. We’re talking about cutting academic supports, so we’ll be taking them away from the students who need it the most. We’re talking about cutting school bus drivers, who are critical in maintaining social distancing,” said Ash-Cutbert.

The proposed cuts in Scarborough are being called a “devastating blow” to students. Unfortunately, they’re not confined to the southern Maine town. Schools across the state and nation are facing shortfalls. MEA and NEA are working hard to ensure the public and elected leaders understand all the issues facing our educators and students. Beyond the immediate needs to keep everyone safe, while still providing students an education, support and food there are funding needs. MEA and NEA are working hard to advocate for increased funding from the federal government. “Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has exposed and exacerbated the inequities facing our most vulnerable students and with the economic downturn now threatening the future of public schools, parents and educators are standing together because we cannot wait. Our nation’s students cannot pay the price in this crisis,” said National Education Association President Lily Eskelsen García.

Part of the advocacy work includes increased attention in the media to these issues. MEA worked with NEA to conduct a virtual press event with the presidents of the NEA and the National PTA, Ash-Cuthbert and a Colorado support staff member. Media outlets from around the country, including leading education magazines and major networks along with local Maine reporters, listened to the call as all explained the challenges ahead and what’s needed to move forward.

Many of my students have parents who are essential workers reporting to their jobs...The children in these families are likely to experience less at-home support around distance learning."

“Many of my students have parents who are essential workers reporting to their jobs at the local grocery stores, fast food restaurants and other front lines. The children in these families are likely to experience less at-home support around distance learning. The disparities between the haves and the have-nots is growing exponentially during this crisis.”

In addition to reaching out to the media, NEA launched a major national advocacy campaign to continue educating the public and decision-makers about the devotion of our members to our students while ensuring if and when schools re-open they do so safely.

“If I can’t tell my students that they are safe with me, I won’t be able to provide them with the best education possible. We need help. And if stimulus money from the federal government is what it takes, then that is what it takes. Because our kids are the most important thing here,” said Ash-Cuthbert.