State Lawmakers Disappoint Las Vegas Schools
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State Lawmakers Leave Las Vegas Schools Disappointed
Las Vegas Schools continue to feel neglected by Nevada’s priorities, as the latest legislative session failed to offer significant support for public education. Despite serving a large and diverse urban population, Nevada's financial backing falls short, with per-pupil spending approximately $1,800 below the national average. Education and healthcare advocates, including those from Las Vegas Schools, expressed frustration over the legislature's inability to meet even the most basic standards of support.
A major disappointment for Las Vegas Schools was the lack of funding for a universal all-day kindergarten program. Mary Jo Parise-Malloy from Nevadans for Quality Education emphasized the urgency, saying, “Until our per-pupil funding levels increase, providing basic and adequate support, our students cannot progress. We’re wasting our time.”
The national goal of achieving proficiency in state exams by 2014 and ensuring highly qualified teachers for math and science places additional pressure on Las Vegas Schools. Teacher salaries in Las Vegas were last increased by 2% in 2001, with only a 4% increase anticipated in 2009. Districts like Clark County expect thousands of vacancies for the 2007-2008 school year. One positive outcome of the session was the retention of incentives for teachers in at-risk schools, though it remains uncertain if these will be provided as cash bonuses instead of retirement benefits.
While overall satisfaction is low, there were some positives. Las Vegas Schools will benefit from an $80 million grant for remediation and innovation programs over the next two years. Keith Rheault, state superintendent of public instruction, described the budget as a fair compromise given varying perspectives and declining reviews.
The Clark County district expects to introduce 30-40 full-day kindergartens in high-risk areas. Many educators back this initiative, as full-day kindergarten can provide essential social and academic skills to low-income students. Although some educators debate the effectiveness of full-day kindergarten nationally, its acceptance is growing, particularly for students in poverty.
Ultimately, students, teachers, and parents in Las Vegas Schools feel let down by the state's commitment to education. John Jasonek, a teacher advocate, summarized the sentiment, calling the recent session "another sad commentary on the state’s lack of commitment to education."
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