Seattle Public Schools is looking for solutions to close the estimated $35 million budget gap by implementing cuts and cost increases.

The state of Washington only funds half-day kindergarten and families are charged $207 per month to fund full-day kindergarten. SPS is looking to increase the cost to $310 per month.

In addition, SPS is considering a 20 percent cut in central office staff positions, changes to the transportation plan, furloughs and the use of reserves. 

"Our commitment is to reduce funding to individual schools only as a last resort," SPS stated in a press release. "However, having explored all potential budget solutions, at this time we do not believe we can balance the budget for 2011-1012 without some direct impact to schools."

Families that qualify for free or reduced-price lunch will not be charged for full-day kindergarten.

SPS is asking for parents' opinions regarding payment for full-day kindergarten through an online survey.

Responses will be received through Friday, Feb 18, but responses received by 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb 16 will be shared with the School Board during the budget work session that evening and will help guide budget decisions.

Survey can be found at: 
https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/HYTDGHZ