COBB COUNTY, Ga.,None — More than 200 people packed the Cobb County School Board headquarters Thursday evening to take part in a debate over changes to school district's calendar.
READ: Approved School Calendar READ: Summary Report On Calendar Data
Twenty-two people took to the podium in a last-ditch effort to convince the board to vote in favor of a balanced calendar, or not. A balanced school year would mean an Aug. 1 start over an Aug. 15 or 17 start.
Data released from a survey of parents, teachers and students showed more than 70 percent in favor of a balanced calendar, but the board felt differently.
In the end, the board voted 4 to 3 for an Aug. 15 start date. "Knowing that we are facing a $20 to $30 million cut in our budget, once again I have to look at ways to save jobs," said board member Alison Bartlett. "I think starting school later in August will present significant savings," said board member Tim Stultz.
Following the decision, some parents told Channel 2's Erica Byfield they may move to recall board members.
"This has been the most ridiculous show of power that I've ever seen," said Jerry Bontrager.
"I think what happened tonight is a mockery. These people are elected to be public servants and they are not representing the public," said Jessalyn Anglin.
WSBTV
