In the article linked here, http://www.detnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070519/SCHOOLS/705190344/1003/METRO, a controversial bill has been introduced to Legislation this week in regards to the possibility of Detroit School Board members being paid an annual salary each year for their services and commitment. The members of the Detroit School Board have not been receiving anything for their services to the School Board other than $30 a meeting. This, according to some does n teen cover gas expenses. While the most members of the board are in favor of the possibility of earning a pay, other still disapprove the idea. One Detroit School Board member, Joyce Hayes-Giles, who also acts as the Board’s Vice President is quoted as stating “”There’s no question that we put a lot of time into it and don’t get paid, except for $30 a meeting, But if the district is expected to pay, I can’t support it. I’d rather see (the money) go to instruction.”

According to the article, the proposed $61,890.30 annual salary is not to exceed 90 percent of the salary that Wayne County Commissioners earn. The bill was introduced by State Rep. George Cushingberry Jr, who feels that by paying the state school board members a salary “would help create a more professional school board and draw more candidates.” He also stated that the implementation of the proposed salary could “prevent backroom deals.” This is because those who currently serve on the board are “usually retired, unemployed or volunteers”. Those who do not fit this description are already wealthy. Even though the bill was introduced, there are already problems that would prevent it from being passed as according to the article the Detroit School “district is projecting a budget shortfall in excess of $110 million next school year. Its budget is about $1.3 billion.” Most members are not even considering the deficit that the district is currently in as they feel that “they spend dozens of hours a week attending meetings, taking calls, filling out paperwork, traveling to schools and researching policies” and should be compensated for dong so.

According to the article, many are in opposition to the bill and have posted comments about it on the website, Michiganvotes.com. I honestly understand the frustration of the naysayers. I guess that my confusion comes in as I do not understand where the money for these salaries will come from. The district is closing schools doors daily and teachers are suffering layoffs by the hundreds. If money can not be allocated for the schools the schools to remain open, then how can money be available for people who went into their positions knowing that the compensation would be a mere $30 a meeting. If this pay was feasible, when the “members” accepted the position, then why is there such a problem with it now? I have to agree with the school board President – if places that need more funds, instruction should be at the top of the list. Isn’t the education of our children our main concern here? I guess that I, like many have to keep the hope alive that sooner or later, the focus will once again be redirected to where it belongs—to the children and their education – our future!!!