Toledo charter school officials express concern over governor's funding cut proposal

3/16/2009

Several Toledo charter school leaders said Monday morning that their schools could face devastating effects if Gov. Ted Strickland's proposed 20 percent funding cuts to charter schools is approved.

Renee Marazon, superintendent of the Maritime Academy of Toledo, said the reduction could force the school to close.

"If I lose 20 percent of my funding, that translates into $500,000 a year," Ms. Marazon said during a news conference at the school, located at 1000 Monroe St.

There are currently 133 students from 5th grade to 12th grade enrolled at the school.

Martin Porter, director of the Toledo School for the Arts, also expressed concern.

"We believe every student ought to have the same amount of money in their backpacks whether it's at a traditional school or a public charter school," Mr. Porter said.