TAXPAYERS SHOULD ACT, NOT REACT, TO SCHOOL CUTS

Voters spoke clearly on Proposition B. Now, it's education's turn to talk candidly about finances. The future of our schools may come down to a simple matter: expectations. Citizens must decide what they expect from our schools and what they are willing to pay for those services.

Most area schools are facing some measure of budget cuts this year. For example, the Cape Girardeau Public Schools must cut $1.1 million from its nearly $20 million budget by this spring. Superintendent Neyland Clark told board members Monday night that everything is "fair game" for the budget ax. That includes sports, special services and academic programs.

The goal will be to cut those activities that have the least effect on academic performance. As a way to measure community expectations against resources, the Cape Public Schools plan to launch Project Partnership: Schools and Community in the coming weeks. A random survey should be mailed before Thanksgiving. A follow-up community meeting is planned in January.

This is an opportunity for the public to tell the schools what is important.

The Cape Girardeau Public Schools are facing tough choices. In essence, they are our choices. Taxpayers foot the bill for public school operations. People must take time in the coming months to listen to reports on school finances and decide what services are essential.

Since 1988, the Cape Girardeau Public Schools have added more than 50 new or expanded programs. A number of these improvements were state mandated; some were suggested by parent groups; still others were brought on board to improve the overall program. The era of expansion has ended.

Cape Girardeau Public Schools are more fortunate than many districts that are fighting bankruptcy. Good management over the years will allow the district time to study the budget and make recommendations.

But there's no question as to the result. More than $1.1 million in cuts will be made. The outcome of Proposition B has already determined that course of action. Additional state budget cuts will take effect in January.

If citizens find they are not satisfied with the level of cuts, they may have to consider a local funding alternative - a solution not tied to statewide mandates.

The Cape Girardeau school district is turning to the public for a recommendation as to services. It's the public's turn to make expectations known within the district's resources. Taxpayers and parents carry the responsibility to act now, instead of simply reacting to cuts certain to come soon.