Collection:LPB

Genre: News, Public Affairs

Place Covered: Louisiana

Copyright Holder: Louisiana Educational Television Authority

Date Issued: 2011-03-25

Duration: 00:07:40

Subjects: Education | SCHOOL DISTRICTS | MINIMUM FOUNDATION PROGRAM | Debts, Public

Contributors:

• Whinham, Charlie Host
• Sanford, Shauna Host
• Lincoln, Sue Reporter
• Crews, Keith Editor
• Pastorek, Paul Interviewee
• Haynes, Joyce Interviewee
• Monaghan, Steve Interviewee
• Kolwe, Mark Interviewee
• Smith, Pat Interviewee
• Smiley, Mert Interviewee
• Doerge, Jean Interviewee
• Simon, Scott Interviewee

This segment from the March 25, 2011, episode of the series “Louisiana: The State We’re In” features producer Sue Lincoln’s report on the financial difficulties facing several school districts around the state. Lincoln interviews Superintendent of Education Paul Pastorek, who discusses his belief that none of the districts will go bankrupt, the recent resignation of the superintendent in Webster Parish, and the process of declaring bankruptcy for a school district. She also interviews Joyce Haynes, the president of the Louisiana Association of Educators, and Steve Monaghan, the president of the Louisiana Federation of Teachers, who discuss the impact of the freezing of the Minimum Foundation Program funding formula on the school districts. Lincoln then talks to Tangipahoa School Superintendent Mark Kolwe, who discusses the rising costs facing his district and the upcoming vote on a property tax initiative to help raise local revenue for the district. Lastly, Lincoln speaks to State Representatives Mert Smiley, Jean Doerge, Pat Smith, and Scott Simon about what they can do to help their local school districts. Hosts: Charlie Whinham and Shauna Sanford