Over the next 10 days or so, more than 42,000 North Georgia students will return to classes with the state’s education system facing unprecedented financial straits, more children and an uncertain future.
The first school bell in the region rings this morning at Chickamauga City Schools, followed Thursday by Catoosa County Public Schools.
As they start the school year, and before the first student hits the door, Chickamauga teachers already know they’re going to have six furlough days, while Catoosa’s teachers face five.
In Chickamauga, where about 1,350 students will be at their desks, Superintendent Melody Day said officials are entering the year with the understanding that every penny counts – literally.
“It’s that tight,” Day said.