May 28, 2009
In my letter dated March 4, 2009, I discussed the precarious condition of public education in California due to the state's budget crisis and inability to adequately fund public schools. There was hope that the recent election would deliver passage of the Proposition 1A through 1E helping the state to bridge a portion of the budget gap. However, Propositions 1A through 1E failed to receive voter support. School districts around the state find themselves in the midst of even greater fiscal uncertainty and the likelihood that California will drop to 50th place within the United States in annual per pupil funding of its public schools. School districts are being advised that there will be additional funding cuts in 2008-2009 and 2009-2010.
At the same time, the requirements of No Child Left Behind and other accountability measures have not been eliminated or suspended. We in education leadership know that all efforts centered on school improvement must continue even during this time of fiscal limitations. Sunnyvale School District is committed to the goal of continuous improvement as evidenced by our strategic goals to:
- Enable all students to achieve academic success
- Build a culture of continuous learning for all employees
- Provide comprehensive support for the whole child
- Provide access, training and support for up-to-date integrated technology for all stakeholders.
Achievement of these objectives over the next few years will take resources and the preservation of our dedicated teachers and other employees and the valuable services they provide to our students. As I have reported previously, Sunnyvale School District is fortunate to be in a strong financial position and has been able to maintain jobs and services, but concerns about the severity and duration of California's funding crisis are very valid. The challenge for Sunnyvale School District and all of California's public schools will be meeting the expectations of continuous school improvement for students during a time that schools are financially starved. Despite the financial obstacles we within Sunnyvale School District are committed to meeting this challenge for the students we serve.
I wish to extend my best wishes to all of you for a safe and restful summer break and I thank you for your continued support of Sunnyvale School District.
Yours truly,
Benjamin H. Picard, Ed. D.
Superintendent of Schools
