(Feb. 9, 2011) -- Last month Gov. Jerry Brown announced his budget plan for 2011-2012. His proposal calls for a $12.5 billion dollar cut in spending. The cuts include $1.7 billion from Medi-Cal, $1.5 billion from welfare and $1 billion from California public universities — UCs and Cal States. The only major area Brown has decided to not cut any spending is on K-12 education.

There are roughly 6 million students attending K-12 public schools in California, according to the California Department of Education (CDE). With one of the largest student populations among all states in the U.S, an emphasis on education should be our top target. There are numerous elementary, middle and high schools that are not meeting standards. Brown’s strategy in devoting money to prepare kids rather than putting money in higher education is more beneficial and advantageous.

According to the CDE, the drop out rate is 21.5 percent, up three percent from the year before. It’s essential for kids to get a decent education so that they have the incentives to go onto community college or universities. Besides it’s time that we focus are money on K-12, since deep cuts were made in previous years.

While Brown’s plan will take potential money away from the elderly and the general public, the decision was inevitable. With a state deficit of about $25 billion, Brown needed to make minor adjustments towards certain programs. Brown has also said that he wants to increase income taxes in order to help pay off the deficit. Brown shouldn’t be criticized for this proposition. Former California Governor and late President Ronald Reagan was known for raising taxes whenever necessary.

According to the Department of Treasury, in addition to the budget deficit, California has a debt of roughly $80 billion from bonds. Under former Gov. Arnold Shwarzenegger, our bonds debt trippled from $27.5 billion. It’s time to start balancing our budget. Brown’s past experiences as governor should serve this state well. Believe in Brown, believe that he can turn California’s debt around.