By BJ Austin, KERA News
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/kera/local-kera-966693.mp3
Dallas, TX – School Districts across the state are shrinking their budgets in anticipation of state lawmakers cutting "billions" in funding for public education. But the Keller I-S-D is also considering a tax hike in addition to budget cuts. KERA's BJ Austin reports.
The Keller School Board has a special meeting tonight to talk about raising the rate to the maximum $1.17 per 100 dollars value. That would, but law, require voter approval.
Keller has already laid off 200 employees, and plans more "teacher" layoffs.
Dallas I-S-D laid off 200 non-classroom employees Friday. Superintendent Dr. Michael Hinojosa says every district around the state is struggling, and getting little help from state lawmakers.
Hinojosa: The flexibility bills which would allow us, like the city and county, to furlough and reduce salaries, those are just about dying before they even get to full vote in either chamber. So we don't have the flexibility to try to protect some of these jobs.
Dr. Hinojosa says so far Dallas I-S-D has avoided "teacher" layoffs. But, that's not the case with in Fort Worth, Arlington, and other North Texas districts.