HAWAII KIDS ARE NOT SPARED from FURLOUGH

As Hawaii Public School Teachers ratified yesterday a 2-Year Contract that amounts to 7.9 % saving or pay cut, along with the teachers, students will have to bear shut down of 17 Fridays, beginning next month of October.

81 % of the voting population of the Hawaii State Teachers Association(HSTA) from 26 schools across the State approved the new contract.

Although some members were hesitant, majority acknowledged the huge need to make concessions to help the State cope on its current financial constraints over budget shortfall.

Though the agreement on furloughs is much less than the three furlough days per month, or 14 % pay cut that Hawaii State Gov. Linda Lingle had wanted from the very start, it's the children who would more likely suffer.

"No question it will have a big impact on student learning. We're very concerned about that," HSTA President Wil Okabe admitted on interviews with the Associated Press.

I strongly disagree on this. But, I am not a teacher and even if I am, I don't think I can beat the majority. At the same time, it's all water under the bridge now. Contract is done! And, what had been agreed upon is less learning time for Hawaii's children. Their learning were sacrificed as the State faces short on budget, without even hearing from them if that's what they like too. So, so frustrating! Totally disgusting!

The question now is what kids would do on that 17 Fridays that they won't have school?

I believe it's about time parents association all over the state should come out and work with the Department of Education for a collaborative effort to resolve the issue.

I believe non-academic activities that kids can do on campus could fill in the 17 Fridays and make them busy.

It could be sports or any physical activities that can be worthwhile. Or, short classes on technical and vocational studies. Educated volunteers and professionals can be utilized in this project.

I agree that everybody has to make our sacrifices as we struggle on these challenging days of recession. Moeover, I totally agree that we all have a responsibility in our community, regardless if we are state workers or not. But, I just wish our children; the kids should have been spared from these messy struggles.

Parents should definitely get involve! Let your voices be heard; after all, what at stake now are your children's growth and learning. Take part and be responsible!