Program cut sparks complaints

Terry Webster

Friday, May 11, 2001 | 10:31 a.m.

The budget cuts undertaken recently by the Clark County School District are beginning to stimulate protests among parents and students.

School Board members got an earful Thursday night from people concerned about the elimination of a carpentry program at Vo-Tech High School.

"I'm a sophomore and I was told all year that I have to pick a vocation," said Justin Smith. "So, I chose carpentry. Now carpentry is no longer going to be there."

Students said the program will be axed in a matter of days unless the board overrules a decision by administrators.

Many said they have chosen carpentry for their career and now must change their plans.

"In four months, I have to plan for my life after high school," said Joshua Swackhamer.

Bob Austad, a counselor at the school, said he has figures that show there are other programs at the vocational school that have a lower enrollment than carpentry.

About 32 students have enrolled for the program for the fall.

Superintendent Carlos Garcia said those classes should be combined before a program is eliminated.

Part of the problem, he said, is that the school is losing teachers and may not have enough people to teach all classes.

Board member Larry Mason asked that the program be reinstated immediately and that the board overrule the school's decision.

Board president Mary Beth Scow said the board should remember what is best for the overall student population.