Formation and First Meeting of FCN Education Committee

As a California public school system, Fremont Unified School District faces many challenges during this economic downturn. Responding to large state funding cuts, FUSD has taken drastic steps.

During next (2009-2010) school year, FUSD would have 130+ less teachers and 10+ less counselors. School library hours would be cut by 50% even as public libraries are cutting hours and services. Kindergarten, 4th to 6th grade, jr. high and high school class sizes would increase.

What do all these cuts and changes really mean?

Fremont students need more teachers - not less. Most Science, Music and Computer programs at our elementary schools would be terminated. Many elementary teachers would return to classrooms or teach at the secondary level after a long absence. Student exit interviews have clearly shown the impacts of less counselors - far fewer students go to college for example. Students can't learn when they are distracted without help. Reading is a critical component of academic success but there will also be fewer resources and programs. At a time when our students can truly benefit from more personalized attention and services, teachers would have to teach and direct more students per class. Totally, many secondary teachers would have more than 150+ students next school year.

The above paragraph is only a brief summary.

The impacts to our children's education are truly significant and FUSD budget cuts are no longer simply financial issues. Our children's quality of education is clearly at risk. Their future may also be at risk.

Meanwhile, all the existing student achievement and parent communication issues are still with us. There are on-going debates about the quality, quantity and distribution of homework and projects. At the secondary level, there is no indication that there is consistent coordination between staff or deep understanding of the totality of our students' academic challenges. Many students can benefit from time management and study skills. School to parent communication and parent participation are areas needing continuous attention.

Again, the above paragraph is only a brief summary.

What can parents and the Fremont community do to help?

Fremont Citizens Network is forming an Education Committee. Its goal is to objectively investigate, discuss and take actions for what the Committee believes to be in the best interest of the children. The Committee's primary approach is to work collaboratively on what its members consider compelling in the area of education within Fremont.

On July 28th, FUSD's School Board will hold its next meeting at the FUSD Building, Board Room, 4210 Technology Drive starting at 6:30pm. The 2009-2010 school year budget is expected to be on the agenda. It would be great for everyone who is interested in joining the FCN Education Committee to have an introduction/update to FUSD's finances. After this agenda item is finished, the Committee would hold its first meeting to discuss its initial objectives.

Together, we can make a difference.

Hiu Ng

FUSD Parent