School districts across California are at risk of losing teachers and school days due to budget cuts. On Wednesday night, superintendent Trudy Arriaga and other members of the superintendent’s panel discussed Proposition 30 and Measure Q as solutions to the budget crisis.

Michael Tapia, Phi Delta Kappa Buenaventura Chapter President, began the night by introducing the five panel members who discussed the potential outcome for schools if Prop 30 doesn’t pass.

If it passes, Proposition 30 will increase taxes on California residents with an income of $250,000 or greater and will also increase sales tax a quarter cent, the revenue of which will go directly to the schools.

When she spoke, Arriaga explained that VUSD has faced $25 million in cuts and will face an additional $8 million if Prop 30 does not pass. She also predicted an elimination of summer school, increase in class sizes, 10 more furlough days, and 100 staff layoffs.

“Economic vitality is built on quality of education,” Arriaga said.

California has seen major budget cuts in recent years for education and is currently 47th in the country for per pupil spending.

Wednesday afternoon, a number of teachers and went door-to-door trying to gain supporters for Measure Q and Prop 30.{sidebar id=62}

Cabrillo Middle School teacher and precinct leader Cynthia Powell sees Measure Q as a way to secure staff member jobs and avoid increasing class sizes.

“Measure Q is a $59 parcel tax for four years that would produce $2.8 million directly towards Ventura Unified,” Powell says.

Foothill Junior Ami Ballmer feels these issues directly affect her education and spoke in support of both Prop 30 and Measure Q.

“The number one thing we can do is invest in education. Small short term inconveniences pale in comparison to inaction,” she said.

Credit: Bethany Fankhauser/The Foothill Dragon Press