Fillmore: legislation would streamline education

A 16-member committee will study issues related to school district unification and consolidation, including a process for school districts to develop their own unification and consolidation plans and other peripheral issues such as alignment and standardization of curricula and textbooks.

I believe that in light of dramatic budgetary impacts on schools, we must find ways to create cost saving opportunities. To do so, means more money to increase teacher pay and to put money into the classroom for materials, books and technology.

The first meeting of the committee will occur the week of July 25, shortly after HB2219 goes into effect, with monthly or bi-monthly meetings until December 2011, when final recommendations are due.

We have learned from past experiences that a one-size fits all approach does not work. That is why we need folks from the education community to draw from their knowledge and experience. I want to finish our work knowing we have explored every option and made every recommendation that can be implemented.

HB2219 created the Joint Legislative Study Committee on School District Unification and Consolidation, chaired by Rep. John Fillmore (R-Apahce Junction), Rep. Doris Goodale (R- Kingman) and Sen. Rich Crandall (R-Mesa).