New York Teachers Union Survey Details Classroom Impact Of Budget Cuts

The New York Times (11/2, Fertig, Subscription Publication) reports on a new survey of New York City teachers' union chapter leaders by the United Federation of Teachers which "gives a new look at how the latest round of budget cuts has affected students," noting that respondents reported "more crowded classrooms, fewer textbooks and even a lack of furniture." Moreover, the Times reports, "three-quarters of the elementary school leaders said their schools had been forced to raise class sizes, and more than half said they had to cut back on tutoring and other supports. More than 60 percent of the high school respondents said their schools had reduced or eliminated afterschool programs."