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Teachers, students and parents urge board to protect programs and services as budget cuts loom
Summary
Multiple public commenters — teachers, parents, students and program staff — described the human impact of proposed budget cuts and urged the district to protect programs including the Rise program, newcomer navigator, dual-language class sizes, performing arts and inclusion supports for students with disabilities.
At public comment, Bellevue School District teachers, students, parents and community partners urged the board to prioritize programs and staff that serve vulnerable and high-need students as the district navigates budget reductions.
Speakers described programs at capacity, student learning and safety concerns, and the emotional impact of staff non-continuing notices. "These kids... are going to class. They are completing their education. They are using an alternative pathway to be successful," said Catherine Stein, a board member of the student engagement board, describing the Rise program (run by Glenn Haslinger at Highland Middle School) and urging funding to expand capacity. Stein said the Rise program is currently overcapacity, leaving staff with "hands tied" to refer students who need an alternative pathway.
Highland Middle School teacher Melissa Taylor urged the board to…
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