We all have been hearing about how there are a lot of things being cut from education right now, but because of the Federal Stimulus package—there might be some money to invest in some important things in California. So, this piece is looking at the good things that might happen if this money comes through.

For instance, this article talks about how they might be investing $1.3 billion for disadvantaged students. I think that is good that they are still trying to help the students who can’t help themselves. It will help them a lot with books and supplies, in order for them to get the education that they need.

If I was in charge, I would do the same thing. I would also put some money into the school to make it look better, because if you’re in a messed-up area, how could you focus on learning?

They also have some money for the Special Ed students. They might have $1.2 billion just for the Special Ed classes to get the help and material that they need. I think this money is good, but more than books and supplies, I think they need to have the right teachers who are really into helping the students that need the help.

In general, I think they need to take some of this money and invest into teachers instead of laying so many of them off.

They also are talking about $200 million for pre-school. This is good for my family. The reason why I say that is because I have a five-month-old son, and when it’s time for my son to go to pre-school—it will be better and nice because they are investing this money.

Altogether, I think the idea of putting the money in to the education is good and very helpful and it’s good to hear that it isn’t all just being taken away.
—Ricky Rollins

This blog was written during a New America Media Education Reporting Fellowship for Youth, which was funded through The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation.