Dear EBRPSS Supporters,
I have not written to you in a while as I know that we all needed a break to prepare for the new school year. I hope that each of you have enjoyed the first week. Sadly, however, many students returned to the classroom without a direct bus ride, a homeroom teacher to greet them, or a completely clean facility. Those of you who signed this petition are visionaries. You knew that a Narcisse administration would cause problems for our entire district and you were right. Sadly, the current EBRPSS School Board ignored our please. What is the result?
Recently, Chief Financial Officer Kelly Lopez revealed that the EBRPSS’ budget for 2023-24 school year will have a $56 million shortfall. This revelation came at the July 14th EBRPSS School Board meeting. During the July 21st meeting, the School Board did not fund the Pathways program. Nonetheless, Narcisse has had money for radio and TV ads. Meanwhile, transportation was cut. A private janitorial provider, HES, received a contract; this company lowered wages and let many of our dedicated janitors go. Faculty have continued to be disrespected to the point that many quit. Sign on bonuses have been promised to NEW faculty while many classroom veterans are denied bonuses. Our cherished Special Education program has lost at least 51 staff. Our most vulnerable students have been cast aside. This is shameful.
We must persevere. How?
Make sure you know which district you live in. Sadly, the lines drawn in 2014 will still be used to determine districts. EBRPSS’ website has maps under the school board candidate’s name and bio. The Secretary of State also has a voter portal online that you can access.
Get to know the candidates.
Although I do not live in District 7, I am giving my wholehearted support to Cathy Carmichael, one of my co-leaders of Friends of Public Ed. I have included a link to her website. Unlike her opponents Mike Gaudet and Gloria Wall, Cathy has been an EBRPSS parent, volunteer, and advocate for a long time. She and her husband have a students in elementary, in middle school, and in high school this year. She is a researcher for the School Health Advisory Council. Cathy is a certified nutritionist. In her free time, Cathy leads a Girl Scout troop and organizes swim teams. Cathy and her family are also active in their church. You may have seen her at protests wearing a red hat or heard her speaking at school board meetings. Cathy has what it takes to partner with stakeholders “to create a healthier, happier future for EBR school kids.”
4. Make sure that you and your family are participating in your local school through any parent faculty club that is available.
Message me on Facebook or follow Cathy on Twitter at Friends of Public Ed.
Persevere!
Mary Juneau