From the classrooms to the streets, hundreds of teachers, parents and students took a stand for educational programs and jobs currently on the chopping block.
With signs in hand, demonstrators rallied at the intersection of University Drive and Sunrise Boulevard in Plantation Wednesday afternoon. They were sending out a strong message to save the Arts in the Broward Public Schools District, claiming officials are heading in the wrong direction.
"As A parent, I feel honestly that she is not getting the quality education I did as a child," said protesting parent Melody Hall.
The outcry comes after Superintendent Jim Notter announced deep cuts last week to cover the district's $130 million shortfall.
Close to 1,000 teachers could possibly be given pink slips in the coming days. Already, 461 non-classroom employee positions will be eliminated by July 1st, saving the district $24.4 million.
"I think that more kids should get more education of music because if you go to Parkway and any other performing arts schools, these kids are amazing and they have a lot to show and a lot to provide to these Florida residents and throughout the whole world," said middle school student Naomi Mith.
Physical Education and Arts teachers like Gary Goldman were given an option. They could go part time, or go on a waiting list for possible full time employment.
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"To the kids they're gonna have double classes and we're gonna have 40 kids in a class instead of a normal class and it's just a terrible effect, it's horrible," Goldman said.
The 30-year educator is not only concerned about his career, but his students' future.
"We can do the right think and do what's right by the kids, let's think of them first," Goldman said.
The next official school board meeting is scheduled for next Tuesday, but Thursday district officials will meet at Fort Lauderdale High School for a retreat to discuss the budget and the impact on schools. It starts at noon and is open to the public.
