Update on Save TGA

A group of Save TGA supporters were in Nashville this Monday to meet with Lieutenant Governor Ramsey. Following is a brief summary of the items discussed with Lt. Governor Ramsey:


Points made by Governor Ramsey:


* He was surprised that Bredesen cut the program since he was the founder.
* Stated that we would not find any senator or representative opposed to the program, the problem was with the budget
* Suggested that funds from the rainy day fund could be used for the 2010-2011 budget, but TGA would need to submit a plan for how they would be funded in the future.
* Suggested asking businesses for support
* Talked about the possibility of a sliding scale

Gov Ramsey stated that TGA should submit a budget proposal showing how the school could be self-supportive after one year. He stated that the merits of the program should be discussed in the proposal. Gov. Ramsey also recommended that the following Senators be contacted:


* Senator Jamie Woodson- District 6 Knox County - Member of Finance Committee (http://www.capitol.tn.gov/senate/members/s6.html)
* Senator Randy McNally - District 5 - Anderson, Loudon, Monroe and part of Knox - Chair of Finance(http://www.capitol.tn.gov/senate/members/s5.html)

Senator Jamie Woodson asked that TGA submit her a proposal (timeline for feasibility study, alternative funding study).

I know that Jacob and Bethany also met with Representative Jim Coley - District 97; part of Shelby County, House Education Committee. (http://www.capitol.tn.gov/house/members/h97.html). They gave him a packet and spoke with him about TGA for about an hour.



PS: Report cards will be mailed at the first of next week, rather than this week due to spring break.