Just two days before voters go to the polls, the next edition of "School Matters" explains the impact that passage of the referendum, which will appear on the January 29 ballot, will have on public education in Duval County. The monthly question-and-answer program hosted by Joyce Morgan Danford airs Sunday, January 27, 2008, at 10 a.m. on WJCT-TV, Channel 7, Comcast Channel 8.
Superintendent Ed Pratt-Dannals is joined by Duval County School Board vice chairman Tommy Hazouri and the district’s Chief Business Officer, Thresa Giles, to detail how a projected $74 million funding loss over five years would affect classrooms in Jacksonville if the referendum gains voter acceptance.
Pratt-Dannals, Hazouri and Giles will dispel the perception that public schools would be held harmless of funding cuts if the measure passes. To the contrary, the school leaders will maintain that the possible "devastating" reductions would have immediate impact on DCPS classrooms. They will say any cuts ordered by an approved referendum would be amplified by unexpected shortfalls the school system is experiencing due to an unprecedented economic downturn in the state.
In December, the School Board formally approved a resolution that opposes the approval of the property tax amendment, and joined community leaders at a January 22 press conference to inform the public of the devastating impact to our public schools.
In another segment of "School Matters," details of a new teacher recruitment program are unveiled. Educators Of Change can offer special training and support to new teachers who have changed careers.
Another topic on the news program includes an update on the importance of world languages in today’s marketplace and DCPS’ varied offerings to prepare its students to meet the needs.
The final segment will introduce the important district accreditation process to "School Matters" viewers.
The program is produced monthly by WJCT-TV and the Communications Office of Duval County Public Schools. "School Matters" airs the fourth Sunday of every month at 10 a.m.
