Public Comment

I'm writing to ask for your help in getting folks from Berkeley to a critical rally in Sacramento on April 21st. Below you will find specific details of the bus pickup times and locations. Everyone is welcome to come aboard one of these BFT/BCCE buses we just need to know who's coming. If you can please spread this info far and wide we would be so appreciative. 

Folks may be wondering if this trip will make a difference. The timing is, in fact, perfect. On May 15, 2010 the Governor will release a revised proposed budget and BUSD will have to use this, by law, to create their own budget. If the trend of increased state revenues continues and the Governor is pressured by folks like us to keep the promise of Prop 98, the $2.5 billion in cuts to education will go away (because Prop 98 mandates that 40% of the unexpected new revenue go to K-14 education). This would mean BUSD would NOT have to make $2.7 million in cuts next year. We can influence the Governor's revised proposal. 

Thanks very much for helping us get the word out about this important opportunity to defend our children and youth, and their educational futures. 

Join thousands of teachers, classified school employees, community members, parents, students tomorrow as we rally in Sacramento to support adequate funding for education and human services in our state.  

AFT President Randi Weingarten will address the rally, and we’ll join up with labor, business, faith-based, and community activists who are walking 365 miles from Bakersfield to Sacramento to galvanize a statewide effort to restore the promise of our state, especially for our children and youth. 

How do you get to Sacramento? It’s easy! BFT and BCCE will have 5 buses leaving at various locations and times (see below). All you need to do is to call 549-2307 or bft4tchr@lmi.net to sign up for a spot. 

Buses are leaving: 

1:00 Adult School (for folks who want to march from 3pm to 4pm to the Capitol) 

2:00 Adult School & Jefferson 

2:15 Longfellow 

2:45 King Middle School & Adult School 

Cathy Campbell, Berkeley Federation of Teachers  

Paula Phillips, Berkeley Council of Classified Employees