Educational funding at all levels has become a serious dilemma, but none more damaging than the budget cuts for the state’s community colleges. Santa Monica College has taken painful steps to reduce classes, part time staff, academic programs and administrative positions.
To their credit, both the president and the trustees have worked diligently in exploring all possibilities to balance the college’s budget, while working with the California Legislature to reestablish funding. Unfortunately, there are some that would have you think otherwise. A few individuals have accused the college administration and the board of trustees as being irresponsible with the budget cuts.
It is understandable that many are angry, but accusing SMC officials is outright foolish. If one is determined to find the responsible party, then look to Sacramento, where Gov. Davis decisively ripped through the budget of the community college system.
Placing blame on ones who have to deal with the governor’s narrow vision is unwarranted and disrespectful.
Joe Weichman