Proposed budget is too harsh

Federal Way schools are headed for a potential disaster.

Our superintendent of Federal Way Public Schools says there is a lack of money for our school district. His proposal for the budget cut is too harsh. Pay-to-play proposals have been anywhere from paying $80 for each sport along with the $35 ASB card, to a $140 one-sport fee. The proposal also includes discontinuing junior varsity teams, music, art classes and other specialty classes.

More gangs and crimes may arise in Federal Way if sports and these classes are eliminated. More jails and detention halls may replace our sports and classes because we didn’t keep our kids directed in healthy, affordable activities in school.

One idea to come up with the money is that willing businesses in the city of Federal Way have a community-supported and promoted weekend sale, donating a portion of their earnings to the budget for schools. After all, employers and local businesses benefit from well-rounded students and lower crime rates. I know there are other people who have some great ideas that might be worth the superintendent’s attention.

Something must be done. Several forums and meetings throughout July and August are needed. The more citizens speak out on this issue, the more our superintendent and schools will realize this budget cut is too harsh. Send e-mails, letters or call the school district offices and newspapers. Let’s begin to join our heads, hearts and hands together to make a difference and show our kids we care.

Christine Poore

Federal Way

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