A Washington Post article (“Three Things to Watch on the Prince George’s School Budget”) recently announced public hearings to get community input on the school budget. The first of which is scheduled for October 19, at the Sasscer Administration Building.

The article gives a clear summary of the budget process. It provides background on last year’s budget process and on possible program cuts, transportation changes and teacher position cuts. Every PGCEA member should read it. Being aware of community interests is very important in the budget process.

PGCEA elected leaders are already discussing key issues facing teachers in order to give the Superintendent initial teacher input prior to budget publication in December. Formal negotiations will begin in the next few weeks at which time PGCEA will put forth its proposals for changes to the Negotiated Agreement.

This year we face challenges on both the local and state level. Be informed and support your PGCEA negotiations team! Be active in Annapolis and Upper Marlboro! The State and County needs to increase – not cut – funding for our county schools. The school budget needs to be adequately funded to support instruction.