School Board Restores $2.4 Million In Programs

The Pleasanton school board voted Friday evening to restore $2.4 million in programs that had been cut from next year's budget earlier this year.

The board voted to reinstate a half-time reading specialist position at nine elementary schools at a cost of $400,000.

They also agreed to add back physical education sections at elementary schools at a cost of $400,000.

The board also authorized $1.3 million to maintain the 25:1 student-teacher ratio in grades kindergarten through third.

Counseling services were restored at a cost $200,000.

The board also agreed to give $50,000 to each district high school to allow for some seventh period classes for students who need them.

In addition, $50,000 will be allocated to elementary schools to provide for remedial programs in reading, math and other subjects.

These programs were cut from the $100 million 2011-2012 budget in February when state budget projections were dire.

District officials said they feel they can add back some programs now because there is better budget news for schools from Sacramento.

"We're extremely happy to be able to reinstate these programs," said PUSD school board member Joan Laursen.

Laursen added board members are optimistic they might be able to restore other programs as the state budget is finalized this summer.

The Friday evening vote came after a two-hour budget workshop at district headquarters. District officials said they scheduled the Friday vote because they wanted to restore the programs before the school year ended. The next regularly scheduled board meeting is June 21.