65% Poison

There's a proposal out there in Colorado (and in other states as well) that is sheer poison. It's called the 65 Percent Solution, but it isn't. Promoted by Patrick Byrne and other voucher advocates, it would wrench control away from local communities and force every district, regardless of size, location or needs, to provide at least 65% of its budget to "the classroom" and teachers as defined by the proposal.

What could be bad about that?

Well, if teachers are concerned about getting more money, we had better look closely. And when we do, 65% is a wolf in sheep's clothing. It would force districts to restructure, in many cases by laying off or privatizing things like transportation, counselors, nurses, administrative staff, and technology. The advocates claim efficiency, but there is very little if any support that their proposal would lead to anything efficient.

It is also a major shell game, moving money around without putting any more money into the system. Don't be confused, it is phony funding. And what makes it worse is that it is presented as if it were a boon to teachers and education.

Definitely, caveat emptor. (Buyer Beware)