CARROLLTON -- One area facing a large sacrifice in budget cuts is public schools.
NBC25 found out what's at stake.
School officials are not happy to say the least.
Just like Governor Snyder, when it comes to making cuts everything is on the table.
“What I feel today is profound disappointment,” said Dr. Craig Douglas, the Superintendent of Carrollton Public Schools.
As the superintendent of Carrollton Public Schools, Dr. Craig Douglas is bracing for what he considers the biggest budget cut to education in 20 years.
“I think its going to affect every kid in some way, shape, or form,” said Douglas.
Governor Rick Snyder wants to cut 5% from education, which means schools will lose about $470 per student.
But with a retirement increase, Douglas says the figure is more like $700 dollars.
“I think students and parents need to understand that this is just a cold, cruel realty right now,” said Douglas.
Douglas says overall the school district will lose two million dollars in funding. That means teacher layoffs are possible, something this mother of four doesn't like to hear.
“I have friends who have kids that are in private school, and they are paying good money for their kids to go to private school, because they feel the public education system is failing them,” said Angela Carter, whose kids go to Carrollton schools.
As far as after school programs and the arts, Douglas says they're a core part of education, but Carter fears they will be cut.
“Being in music, being in sports, that's the foundation for a child's character building you know, assertiveness, self esteem,” said Carter.
Budget cuts also affect how often textbooks are updated. This means students may have to wait another year before they get new math books.
“Its just so unfortunate in this time when global education is important and competitive edge is important,” said Douglas.
Tough decisions will be made, but Douglas is confident district leaders will keep kids their top priority.
Dr. Douglas says feedback from the public on how to make cuts at Carrollton Public Schools is welcome.
School officials will start working on the budget this Monday.
Where do you think school districts should cut costs?
