LAUSD Wants Your Bright Ideas

LAUSD is facing a 377-million-dollar deficit in 2012-13, which has created job losses and very hard times at our local schools.  The parcel tax and labor negotiations could make a big difference in the future, but the District also needs to deal with current budget realities.  District employees are taking pay cuts, unpaid furlough days, grappling with a much heavier work load, and finding every way they can to save money.   Now they’re asking for your help.

The District wants to hear your bright ideas to save money.  The title of the contest beginning now is simply, “My Bright Idea.”   “We want to explore fresh, new ideas for saving money and creating a more efficient district,” said Policy Development Advisor Rochelle Hardemion-Jackson.  “What better way than to talk to our students, employees and parents who have first hand knowledge of the challenges we face?”

The contest runs from April 9th through May 11th.   There are three categories: student, employee, and parents/guardians.  The winners not only get their idea implemented at LAUSD but they’ll be recognized for their bright idea with  a trophy and a monetary award to the LAUSD school of their choice.  You could win $3,000 to help purchase educational materials for your school.

“We need everyone working together to harness our collective thinking to address the fiscal crisis facing our District today,” said Deputy Superintendent Michelle King.  “Our goal is to stabilize our schools and bring back our valued employees, programs, and services to ensure all of our students are receiving a quality education.”  Hardemion-Jackson added: “We also hope to bring further clarity regarding the myths and misconceptions associated with costs and revenue during the budget crisis.”

The District believes this fresh approach will bring energy and enthusiasm into the joint effort of finding ways to save money for everyone in the District.  If you have an idea, submit it now at mybrightidea.lausd.net.

A District panel will review all the ideas and select the top three in each category.  Those nine ideas will be posted to the challenge website and voted on by students, parents, and employees.  Remember, you’ll not only help out your District, but you’ll get money for your LAUSD school and get recognized for your brilliance!

LAUSD’s social media will be providing more information, taking questions and sharing ideas that come in too.  Be sure to follow Facebook/LosAngelesSchools and @LASchools on Twitter, and become part of the solution!

By: Stephanie Abrams

Posted: April 9, 2012