Letter to the Editor

http://www.gilroydispatch.com/opinion/letters/article_1572688a-2816-11e1-a993-001a4bcf6878.html

Budget situation for schools is terrible, but there are a few things you can do to help

Dear Editor,

California's budget situation is adversely affecting our schools.

Some of the casualties of the ongoing crisis are field trips, art supplies, equipment for recess, and many of the other parts of school we remember fondly. Parent clubs do their best to help, but even constant fundraising doesn't bring in enough for all the needs.

However, there are things that everyone in our community can do to make a difference without much effort.

We are very fortunate to live in a community full of generous businesses. Nob Hill Quality of Life cards allow you to send a portion of each of your purchases to a school you select; ask how to get one next time you shop. For Safeway customers, create an account at www.escrip.com, include your Club Card number and the school of your choice, and money gets sent each month. The Target Red Card also allows you to select a school to help. Another easy way to help is to look for Box Tops for Education on many items that you buy everyday, such as Cheerios, Kleenex, and hundreds of other products.  If you clip these and send them to a school, each is worth 10 cents. Many restaurants have special nights where a portion of sales go to schools. Next time you go out to eat, consider picking a restaurant that is helping. Numerous local businesses donate items to help support schools. Please support these places, and let them know how much you appreciate their efforts for our children.

Even if you don't have any students at our local schools, I urge you to consider these simple things. Every school in the district would love to count you as a supporter. If you don't have a favorite school, the parent club at Rucker Elementary, where I volunteer, would happily welcome you.

James Pace, Gilroy

The Golden Quill is awarded occasionally for a well-written letter.