In this economy, every business is suffering in some way and schools are no exception. School districts are facing budget problems that are creating bigger problems than just financial difficulties. Unfortunately, the budget cuts in school districts have a direct impact on the teachers, students, and the learning that is taking place in the high schools.
How the Budget Impacts Teachers
With school district budget problems, teachers are feeling the crunch. Many teachers have been laid off causing not only a rise in unemployment, but also less teachers teaching students in the high schools. The teachers that are still teaching are unable to purchase the materials that are required to teach the high school students the skills that they need to go on to college or into the workforce. Teachers that teach computer related subjects do not have access to up to date technology that is required for students to know today.
How the Budget Impacts Students
Students are being placed into larger classes, due to the budget cuts and the loss of teachers. This means that students are not getting the attention that he or she may need individually to succeed in the classroom. Learning is effected by the budget cuts as there are limited school supplies that can be provided due to the rising cost. Budget cuts are also having an effect on the type of school programs and sports programs that many students rely on to get into a good college. Some schools are attempting to rely on programs where students are required to pay for certain activities, such as sports. Students would be required to pay a base fee in order to be part of a team that should be free. For some students who rely heavily on scholarships, this cost must be absorbed in order to get the experience and attention that the student needs to excel.
High schools are over America are feeling the crunch of the economy and are having to work with decreasing budgets. As this problem continues to grow, it is hopeful that there will be a light at the end of the dark tunnel that will stop school closings, teacher layoffs, and the decrease in activities that provide high school students with the necessary skills and experiences that they need to succeed in the real world. Whether the solution comes from federal or local government, it needs to happen soon.
