Lawrence Superintendent Rick Doll explains funding concerns with the block grant in a letter to patrons and staff.
“A flat funding system combined with enrollment growth and rising operational costs prompt grave concerns about the district’s ability to maintain high quality educational programs and services. Previous budget cutting measures in the district included closing schools, increasing class sizes, adding participation fees, reducing student support services, decreasing teacher training opportunities and eliminating student transportation options…The board invites parent and community input during this budget planning process. We also encourage you to join the board, administration teachers and staff in encouraging the Governor and Legislature to make changes in tax policy that increase state revenue and prevent deeper cuts to public schools.”