Mariposa County Unified School District’s two largest employee groups are asking for the community’s help in making a statement to the school board and district administration. The Mariposa County Teachers’ Association (MCTA) and the Classified School Employees Association (CSEA) will hold a candlelight vigil before the school board meeting set for Thursday, Dec. 17.

Organizers of the “Shine the Light for Quality Education in Mariposa” campaign hope parents, students and community members will join teachers, bus drivers, custodians and other support personnel in the efffort, which begins at 6 p.m. in the quad outside the district office.

“It’s important that everyone in our community knows just what is happening to our schools,” said MCTA President Georgia Gallagher. “Teachers see it first hand every day.”

Gallagher continued. “We’ve said goodbye to art and music programs and hello to crowded classrooms. It’s been really sad for our students to have lost some of their favorite programs,” she said.

Gallagher is referring to some of the cuts the district made in light of last year’s state budget crisis. More than $17 billion has been cut from California public schools in the last two years and more than 17,000 teachers, nurses, librarians and counselors have already been laid off this year. Services by classified personnel have also been reduced.

“These cuts have had a devastating impact throughout our state, and they are having a devastating impact here as well,” Gallagher said. “We all need to stand up for schools. Our future depends on it.”

Those attending the event will be holding candles and placards supporting quality schools. Organizers will serve hot chocolate and candy canes. Gallagher hopes it sends a message.

“We’re hoping our action will shine a light on our schools and the need to preserve quality education,” she said.