I am appalled to learn Gov. LePage does not know how the state of Maine funds public schools. In an article on Oct. 14 (“Governor hopefuls talk education”), LePage is quoted as saying, “If the state met the 55 percent goal in the next budget, school districts could increase their budgets and raise overall spending so that we would fall short again.”
Not so. The 55 percent funding requirement was established by voters in 2004 concerning funding the Essential Programs and Services model. EPS defines the very basic education offerings and staffing levels considered essential for public schools, based on how many students are enrolled, not what communities budget for local schools.
Even if a community votes to add programs and/or staff above EPS levels the state obligation does not change since enrollment does not change.
Education is a major part of the state budget, so how can LePage not know the basics of funding public schools?
Michael Parent
Manchester
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