Economic woes could hit schools

Terry Webster

Wednesday, Sept. 26, 2001 | 10:54 a.m.

Clark County School District officials are bracing for possible belt-tightening in light of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks that have caused the local economy to backslide.

Superintendent Carlos Garcia said Tuesday the district is going to "start preparing."

The terrorist attacks triggered a shutdown then a slowdown of air travel, limiting tourist travel and causing hotel room occupancy rates to tumble.

Thousands of casino workers have been laid off, the governor has announced a state hiring freeze, and school officials fear the economic impact could reach the school district.

District officials are weighing hiring freezes, though not layoffs.

"We will be looking at what positions we absolutely have to have and which ones we are not going to fill, even though it's going to be tough," Garcia said.

He also is keeping a watchful eye on talks this week between Gov. Kenny Guinn and his economic advisers.

"Whatever happens in the state will affect our funding," Garcia said.

The district has no authority to raise taxes to cover costs. It relies solely on state funding.

The issue may be discussed during a budget workshop session Nov. 9, Garcia said. Also included will be preliminary plans for the 2002-03 budget.

Guinn has said that after further review of room occupancy rates, he will decide what actions to take in the state budget. A decision is expected in about 10 days.

The School Board also heard complaints about teacher salaries and overcrowded classrooms.

District officials say those problems can be traced to a lack of state funding.

After enrollment figures are completed this week, adjustments are expected for student and teacher classroom assignments throughout the district. That will help reduce some of the overcrowded classrooms, officials said.