School Board OKs $17.7 Million in Cuts

The Board of Education has approved cuts to busing and summer school while budgeting for 35 students per classroom, instead of 33, in fourth and fifth grades next school year.

The reductions were part of a $17.7 million first phase of budget cuts and reallocations caused by Sacramento's ongoing fiscal crisis.

A 20 percent cut in transportation funding from the state means busing will be eliminated next school year for most students who live within walking distance of school.

The summer session for middle school students will be discontinued.

The cuts were approved after the school district received input from online budget surveys, a Budget Advisory Committee and meetings with employees, parents and others.  More cuts are expected in the coming months.