The recently enacted FY 09-10 Kentucky state budget eliminates $1.8 million in general funds for KET, representing a 12% cut from KET’s original FY 08 state funding. Additionally, the loss of funds associated with retirements could potentially result in more budget reductions.
At the Friday, April 25 meeting of the Kentucky Authority for Educational Television, KET’s governing board, action was taken to authorize planning for the implementation of budget and personnel reductions that will impact KET’s educational programs and services. Specific reductions have not yet been identified.
“The severity of these budget cuts will significantly impact KET’s ability to produce and deliver vital educational programs and services to the citizens of the Commonwealth,” said Malcolm Wall, KET executive director. “We know that we are not alone, as many agencies are facing similar budget cuts. While we are disappointed by the state budget and personnel reductions, we are focused on planning and managing KET’s resources through this challenging time. Our priority is to serve the viewers, teachers and students who tell us every day that KET’s educational programs are more essential now than ever before.”
About KET
KET, Kentucky Educational Television, is the Commonwealth’s statewide public broadcasting network and the only statewide media in Kentucky. KET is Kentucky’s most accessible and comprehensive educational institution and a national producer of adult literacy programs.
More than a million adults and children watch and use KET services each week. Through digital broadcast, multimedia products and direct service to educators, KET brings hundreds of hours of instructional programs and professional development seminars to Kentucky schools each year. KET produces and delivers a wide range of local arts, cultural, documentary and public affairs programs, and provides adult education programs, college-credit courses and the PBS national schedule to viewers throughout Kentucky.
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