Good can come of MUSD budget crisis

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Wow. What an emotional time for hundreds of our neighbors who are Maricopa Unified School District employees, and thousands more who are parents and students.

Our public schools are faced with having to cut at least $5 million — and maybe millions more — from a $36 million budget, 85 percent of which comprises employee salaries and benefits. This is an incredibly painful process that tears at the fabric of our community.

Though it’s understandably hard for those whose jobs are on the line to focus on anything positive, I do think there is some sunshine hidden in those dark clouds.

First, the “every vote counts” mantra has never been more apparent. MUSD is losing $1 million in funding this year, and is set to lose $2 million next year (relative to this year’s budget) and $3 million in subsequent years because a March ballot measure to continue a maintenance and operations budget override failed by 20 votes, 1,408 against to 1,388 in favor.

There undoubtedly are many a district employee and parent who regret not getting off their duff and going to the polls or encouraging a neighbor or 10 to do the same. But the reality of the result of such apathy has knocked the MUSD community upside its proverbial head, and it surely will lead to an increase in voter turnout in May for the statewide sales tax initiative, which will also have a dramatic impact on MUSD’s budget, and in November assuming the governing board puts a new override on the ballot.

Second, I’m of the opinion that one would be hard-pressed not to find waste in any government agency, public schools included. Forcing folks to “sharpen their pencils” and look at ways to be leaner is a good thing, and hopefully the emphasis on efficiency and fiscal conservation will continue even during better financial times.

Third, I witnessed an incredible amount of solidarity among the staff at last night’s board meeting (I guess proposing to close a school and fire the entire staff will do that). One staffer specifically addressed the “back-biting and rumors” perpetuated by adults and challenged his coworkers to set a better example for the kids. The word “unity” was heard many times in the context of unified teachers, a unified school (Maricopa Wells Middle School, which was on the chopping block), a unified district and a unified vision. That’s a good thing.

Fourth, there seems to be a real commitment — from students , teachers, staff and parents alike — to improve Maricopa Wells Middle School, currently designated as Underperforming, and change its culture for the long-haul. One of the students who addressed the governing board summed it up when she said, “Don’t give up on us yet.”

So even in the ominous $5 million cloud that is the MUSD budget crisis, there is silver lining, and hope for a better future.

File photo