I serve as the superintendent and K-12 principal of Engadine Consolidated Schools. [Thursday] we had a business affairs meeting to recommend our budget for the next school year. There was a great sense of relief among those present that we would only face $165 per pupil cut, as opposed to the $423 per pupil cut projected. While this is good news, this still leaves us at 2008-2009 funding levels.

I was appalled [Friday] to hear that Governor Jennifer Granholm and House Speaker Andy Dillon joined with Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop in calling for the use of School Aid dollars to offset funds in the state's general fund.

Anyone who values Michigan's future cannot allow this to happen!

Despite the rhetoric coming out of Lansing, Michigan's schools do not have any surplus revenue.The past few years have been devastating for schools; massive cuts, record layoffs, and school closures have been commonplace. In the past year, school funding has been slashed $165 per pupil.

The "extra revenue" projected as part of the most recent fiscal estimate is not even enough to restore that cut, let alone cover the $150 per pupil cost of the retirement rate increase or the over 20% health care cost increase coming next year.

Even with an improved economic forecast, schools will still be forced to lay off staff and cut programs.

As parents, grandparents, and public servants, we need to ensure that every child has access to the same quality education that our parents afforded us.

Please join me in expressing your commitment to protecting School Aid dollars for their intended purpose.

Tell Lansing to keep their hands off of our children's future. Contact your senator and state legislator today.

Angie McArthur

Engadine