As Florida lawmakers discuss a state budget proposal that would slash education funding, Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) officials and stakeholders continue to fight for the rights of children to receive a constitutionally mandated high quality public education.
The Kendall Federation of Homeowner Associations (KFHA) has announced that M-DCPS superintendent Alberto Carvalho will brief residents on the issues during a special town hall meeting on Apr. 20, beginning at 6:30 p.m., in the auditorium at Hammocks Middle School, 9889 Hammocks Blvd.
KFHA board members ask those planning to attend to take note of the new meeting location that more easily will accommodate the anticipated large crowd.
Gov. Rick Scott’s original budget plan called for public education to absorb about 72 percent of his proposed budget cuts although public schools only account for 29 percent of state spending. While lawmakers have not completely embraced the governor’s plan, M-DCPS officials projected projected the district will have to deal with $144 million in cuts, a total many PTA and education advocates call completely unacceptable.
KFHA president Lee Zimmerman appreciates Carvalho’s candid outreach to the community.
“Our children are Florida’s future. But unlike other special interests, children don’t have legions of highly paid lobbyists roaming the Capitol hallways in Tallahassee to fight for their interests,” Zimmerman said. “It’s vital that parents and community stakeholders stay informed and hold our elected legislators accountable. We are thankful that Mr. Carvalho will present us with a transparent up-to-date analysis of the situation.”
