Dear Parents, Staff, and Students,

It is with heavy hearts that we inform you that we are facing huge
budget cuts.  Our district and our state are both in fiscal emergencies;
this crisis is being described as the worst since Proposition 13.
Difficult decisions will have to be made in the near future, and our
district and community will need to reassess what is basic, while coping
with the loss of some of our fine programs and traditions.

Opportunities for hearing about proposed changes:

Wednesday, February 5th, 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. BHS Staff meet with BUSD

Superintendent Lawrence Wednesday, February 5th, 7:30 p.m: Board meeting
at which the reduction package will be presented

Monday, February 10th , 7:00 - 9:00 p.m: BUSD Superintendent Lawrence
meets with BHS PTSA to discuss impact of the fiscal crisis and plans for
next year

Wednesday, February 19th , 7:30 p.m.: Board meeting at which the Board
of Education will vote on the budget reduction package presented on
February 5th.

Some of the reductions proposed for Berkeley High School for next year
will include, but are not limited to:

1) a reduction in support services such as custodial, clerical,
maintenance, and counseling, 2) elimination of 20-to-1 in 9th grade
English and IES as well as class-size increases across the board,
resulting in teacher layoffs, 3) and a reduction in the allocation to
the Athletics program.

In addition, there will be classified cuts, a hiring freeze, and
rollbacks mid-year.  All funding sources are impacted by this crisis,
including BSEP, State and Federal funds, and all other categoricals.
Similar cuts are  expected across the district.

As we proceed through these difficult times, it will be important for us
to remember that the needs of students must be considered above all
else.  We must not take out our anger and frustration on each other or
the students.  It is important during this time of disillusionment to
take the time to acknowledge and support the commitment that we all have
to the success of our students.

The district is beginning the search for a new Principal.  We have
enjoyed our time as interim Co-Principals, but we are in full support of
this search.  Thank you for your patience with, and support of, us
during these two years.

Sincerely,

Laura Leventer and Mary Ann Valles Co-Principals, Berkeley High School