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The Redwood City School District (RCSD) Board of Trustees recently approved a feasibility study to explore local funding solutions.
This decision comes as the district prepares for the end of federal and state grants that supported various educational programs during the pandemic, according to a district news release.
With pandemic-related funds expiring, the district is exploring ways to sustain critical student success services. These include literacy programs, academic excellence, support for long-term English learners, staff quality and retention, counseling services, and access to early childhood and extracurricular activities.
“I really wish that the State of California and federal government fully funded public schools … we know that there’s so much more needed beyond a classroom teacher… to provide an education … and support our kids,” said Trustee Mike Wells in a statement.
“The reality is that here in California there are limited sources of funding that school districts can tap into for these much needed programs. Local funding is one of those options,” he added
Trustee Alisa MacAvoy pointed to the importance of community involvement in the district’s financial decisions.
“When we think about additional revenue that can offset that [reductions due to one-time federal and state grants], we do have limited choices, and it really is a parcel tax, finding additional donations, and grant monies,” she said at the March 6 board meeting. “… and I know Dr. Baker and many of the staff and … some of us, Trustees, are looking for those donations and that sort of thing. But really, a parcel tax measure, working with our community to bring additional revenue is important.”
“We need to find out what our community thinks,” MacAvoy added.
The Redwood City School District Board of Trustees approved the feasibility study the same night it approved the layoffs and staffing adjustments of dozens of teachers and staff at multiple schools as part of its attempt to cut its budget by $5 million.
