Some Words from Jeff Cook, an HUSD Board Member

Not often do I read words from individual HUSD board member. Around noon, an article titled "Jeff COOK MY WORD Let's focus on the students" came out on In side Bay Area, written by Jeff Cook, who is the member of HUSD board of Education. In this article, he pointed out both HEA and the board should put 'students' first. I don't think anyone can argue about that and he's right.

In the article, Mr. Cook further stated the teachers deserve more, but he'd like the public not to forget HUSD can't afford the raise. He went on and asked HEA and the community what can be cut to to fund what HEA has demanded (the raise), and cutting administration won't help balancing the book as not only does it account for a small percentage, but the administration cost is already low.

Numbers speak. HUSD administration costs as a percent of total budget may be 40 percent less than the state average as Mr. Cook pointed out, indicating HUSD has not been overspending on administration as a whole, which is good. However, the fact of the double digits raise for some administration came out at this time around when HUSD is in need for funding and every bit of savings should be considered. Unfortunately or fortunately, the public can only hold HUSD board accountable to hope the board to talk the teachers back into the classroom, under fairness that public recognizes.

When I grew up in my family and whenever there was time short of resources being cash or food, I don't recall any family member of mine got much more than others, at least not to my face. My parents who were accountable for running the family always made sure limited resources were wisely and fairly distributed.

What do you think?