Welcome Back To School

Welcome back to School!

Class size limits

I've received a number of emails about the class size limits for this school year (2012-13). I've placed two documents on my website (under the documents tab) detailing these guidelines.

I received a terrific question about my thoughts on our class size limits. Specifically, I was asked to reconcile why I voted against both the class size increases and a millage rate increase. The question assumes that in order to keep class size at last year's limits, one would need to increase the millage rate. I disagree. According to data submitted to the Georgia Department of Education by the school districts, Henry County, Cherokee County, Cobb County, Decatur City, Forsyth County, Clayton County, Marietta City and Fulton County, all spend less per student on general administration than DeKalb and have lower millage rates. You can see the numbers by going to the documents page on my website and downloading the "Per student spending" spreadsheet. I'll throw this topic up on my blog "What's up with that?" so you can discuss your thoughts.

Funding Information

I added a new FUNDING tab to my website that discusses how the state funds education. I hope you find it useful.

Hey Nancy, where do I look up......?

I often get questions about a particular policy or board meeting. You can find all the district's policies and board meeting agendas, along with any documents relevant to the agenda items, by searching the "eBoards" website. From the DCSD website, there is a link to it in the drop down menu under "Leadership". You can select eBoards - policy (click here to go directly to the policy page) or eBoards - home (for meeting details; click here to go to directly to the meeting page.). Policies and meeting agendas are searchable.

Run-off Election

As you know, the elections for the DeKalb Board of Education are now held in the summer. Last month, races for the even numbered districts took place. Districts 4 and 6 will have a run-off on August 21st to determine the winner. Click here for voter information about that date.

Charter School Amendment

If you are interested in helping this amendment pass in the November election, you can learn more at the Georgia Charter Schools Association or contact Nina Rubin by email or 404-835-8903.

--Nancy