Frauds, Fakes, Or Fabulous
Jul 16, 2008 10:26 pm US/Eastern
MDCPS Decides Against Cutting Schools Officers
Plan saves a total of 17 jobs
School Board Still Needs To Make Cuts Elsewhere
MIAMI (CBS4) ―
A group of Miami Dade School Police Officers have their jobs thanks to a bold move from Superintendent Dr. Rudy Crew who made the last minute decision Tuesday night.
CBS4'S Jorge Estevez talked with the Police Union's President who is grateful the officers kept their jobs.
"It was awesome. The feeling was awesome," said Howard Giraldo. The President of the Fraternal Order of Police #133 is referring to the moment Superintendent Rudy Crew decided to pull an item from Tuesday night's School Board meeting in Downtown Miami which would have cut 17 jobs.
A standing ovation followed the Superintendent's decision which would have saved the district about a million dollars. "These officers got to go home to their families, I have a job," said Giraldo.
It was a momentary victory for Rudy Crew. Dr. Crew who even mentioned riding the short wave of praise. He didn't think the praise would last because more tough decision are on the way.
"I think in the past we have but not as exhilarating as we got last night, " said Augustin Barrera, the School Board Chairman who represents District 6. Barrera supported last night's decision to not cut the jobs.
"It's one for the community cause the community has really hurting," explained Barrera.
But the hurt may continue. The school board may need to make up for a deficit from the 2007- 2008 school year of possibly another 24 million dollars.
The Miami Dade School Board may need to contribute another 43 million dollars if the governor doesn't dip into the state reserves. And the Miami Dade School District is not expected to make enough money to cover all of next school year's expenses. Who knows how much more will come from there.
In review, the cuts may keep coming but for now, school police officers are safe.
"I applaud any decision that is in the favor of the men and women in the Miami Dade schools police department," said Giraldo.
It will take another 30 to 60 days to figure out exactly how much more money they may need to come up with. The district may need to take another look at cutting salaries, teachers' jobs, magnate school transportation and even closing schools.
Everything is back on the table.
(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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