Student reaction to possible school cuts
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Updated: 3:48 PM Jan 12, 2009
Student reaction to possible school cuts
Zach Patton hopes Haney Technical will stay open.
Posted: 9:46 AM Jan 12, 2009

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Florida school districts are dealing with budget shortfalls and the prospect of future cuts. That has Bay County school board members considering some tough decisions about saving money.

Superintendent Bill Husfelt is proposing a plan to repurpose, realign and even close some districts’ schools. One local student is worried about what that could mean for him.

Zachary Patton doesn't know what all the possible school budget cuts could mean for the program at Haney Technical High School.

Zachary Patton said, "I have to go to Mosley. Will they provide transportation for us for three hours? For Bay and Rutherford, that would pretty much be crazy."

If one of the superintendent’s proposed changes goes into effect Haney High School could be closed, leaving Zach to go to school somewhere else. The school board has to find a way to cut possibly $16 million, and unfortunately that means some things will change.

"Those schools are not in a vocation. They can switch over; it's going to be a little emotional for them, but it's not going to be as bad as losing your vocation, and that's my main priority is will I lose my vocation."

Husfelt says without some changes hundreds of teachers could lose their jobs.

Haney students are able to get a high school diploma and technical degree in a vocational field while in school. There are about 198 students enrolled there currently.

Superintendent Husfelt says he encourages community input on the issue and you will have that chance to voice your opinion tonight at 5:30 in the Nelson Building.


Latest Comments

Posted by: Zach Patton Location: Youngstown on Jan 12, 2009 at 10:31 PM

Hey Zach here loved the way the story went but will you guys put up the video? Let me know! Thanks!