It is said that a government’s budget is an expression of its commitment to its citizens. Well, what’s clear is that Richmond’s commitment to our schoolchildren is shameful.

When we consider local funding only, Richmond commits only half the percentage of its general fund revenue to our schools compared to our county neighbors.

Hanover, with half of our student population and with revenues of $428 million, commits $176 million or 41 percent to its schools operating budget; Henrico, 36 percent; and Chesterfield, 39 percent.

Sadly, Richmond commits a mere $145 million or 20 percent of its gross revenue of $709 million. That would double to about $290 million if it were comparable to what the surrounding counties spend.

Thus, Richmond is structurally underfunded, which may go as far back as the days of segregation.

Sadly, Richmond Public Schools only asks for an additional $18 million to, among other things, fund an academic improvement plan demanded by the mayor, City Council and everyone else.

And City Council can’t find the money? Shame on them. Well, Richmond took in $20 million more this year over last year, so there’s your $18 million right there.

To add insult to injury, there is talk of closing historic Armstrong High School, which is the second most populated and second newest high school building of the five we have. And why would we close elementary schools when RPS projects rapid growth?

Have our city leaders lost their minds to think that we the people will continue to take this idiocy?

Mayor Dwight C. Jones, who thankfully leaves office soon, has sent City Council zero budget increases to schools for virtually all his eight years in office.

To its credit, the council has added millions of dollars each year. And given that Richmond Public Schools is structurally underfunded, it should readily fund the additional $18 million for schools.

Those on City Council who don’t agree should be “expelled” for gross negligence come November.

We don’t have a shortage of money — we have a shortage of moral courage.

E. MARTIN “MARTY” JEWELL

Richmond

The writer is a former Richmond City Council member who now chairs the Education Committee of the Richmond Branch NAACP.