The survey says ...

For the past week, we've asked Gradebook readers for their thoughts on where school districts should cut their budgets during lean times. Respondents overwhelmingly suggested that bus rides to students who live closer than 2 miles to school should get the axe before salaries or extracurriculars.

Here's the breakdown of answers to our question, "In tough budget times, what should School Boards cut first?"

• Courtesy bus rides, 122 votes - 68%
• Athletics and extracurriculars, 50 votes - 28%
• Employee salaries and benefits, 7 votes - 4%

Our new question focuses on the FCAT, and your views on whether the state should retain third-graders who don't pass the reading section of the annual exam. Please take a second to click on an answer. If you have any ideas for future questions, or any other thoughts about the Gradebook in general, please send an e-mail to solochek@sptimes.com.

Comments

[Spelling Bee]

Josh make sure you use your spell checker! :-)Just advise

[josh]

I think the scool budget cuts are so dumb it dosnt make sence to me why do we cut our school funds if we want to be such a smart and sucsessful contry. I am doing a report on this topic and youd be supprised if you only knew the details

[Where is the Accountability?]

RE: Should the state retain third-graders who don't pass the reading section...?

Is there any one out there who believes any of the statistics that are generated by the public school system?

Failing third graders means less money for the districts.

Why can't everyone see how the numbers are being massaged so that districts and key district personnel get money.

There is not a chance that test scores will take money from anyone. Whatever it takes.

[jwt]

Of course they should be retained!!!! If everyone would be accountable from the start--high schools wouldn't get kids who can't read !!!!!