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*Re-published from the SF Chronicle Letters to the Editor* Original Publication: May 23rd, 2020

If we’ve learned anything from the 2008 recession, it would be that an economic crisis is the worst time to cut education funding.

The pandemic has revealed how public schools provide a social safety net for Californians, especially communities that are disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. Many students are struggling with mental health and the stress of adjusting to distance learning. At the same time, their families are risking their lives as essential workers.

Not only do students lack the technological resources to succeed, but they also lack the teaching support systems needed to fully and successfully engage in remote learning. Gutting education right now would be the biggest generational disaster for young people and families of color.

Rather than massive cutbacks, we must go all in on our schools. California legislators can and must negotiate a budget that includes a significant investment in public education. Let’s not repeat the same mistakes of 2008.

Saa’un Bell, Oakland – Letter to the Editor SF Chronicle

Saa’un Bell is a Philippine born, 1st generation Californian by way of Greenville, Alabama. She is a political and grassroots organizer. She is a Strategy Director for Californians for Justice, a Steering Committee member for Power California, and a executive committee member of the Schools and Communities First Coalition.