Combining schools look at more counselors
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) – The unified Memphis and Shelby County schools are looking at ways to reduce out-of-school suspensions. Classes will meet for the first time under consolidation on Aug. 5. According to The Commercial Appeal (http://bit.ly/YJhwu0 ), a recommendation that the schools have adopted in principal calls for adding 60 new school counselors. The recommendation from the Transition Planning Commission states preventive behavioral interventions must be a priority at all grade levels to keep students in school. Adding the counselors would cost about $4 million. With the end of the city of Memphis’ $68 million educational contribution, county property taxes have become the only local funding for education. The unified district expects to receive no more than a $5 million increase from the county.
