School enrollment and funding

Re “Fewer Pupils Create More Worries,” July 31

Wow! Declining enrollment means less money for schools and this worries school administrators and teachers! This shows the true character of school districts, extorting the most from the taxpayer. This is a wonderful opportunity to reduce class sizes, get rid of substandard teachers, reduce bureaucracy and make schools what they should be in the first place -- a place for learning.

CARLOS CUYUGAN

Lake Forest

*

Public schools could boost their enrollments by working harder to stem the flow of dropouts. Some studies show that dropout rates in some school systems are about 40% to 50%. Not only would we help students improve their education, but in the long run we would help cut crime, welfare and joblessness.

SHEILA GOLDBERG

Venice