MPC Theatre is not only important to Monterey Peninsula College and its students/staff/faculty, but also it is invaluable to the community.



Its significance is indisputable, but what of its costs?



MPC Theatre's current budget is modest, and all of what the Theatre Department receives is needed and used to advance the college and all those involved. Whereas "core classes" can afford to have a single teacher and many pupils, theatrical productions require specific professional staffing. Exams obviously don't require the same budget as a theatrical production.



So what needs to be done?



MPC's President and the Board of Trustees need to reconsider cutting the budget of a program that gives so much credence to their namesake. Other options should be considered and enacted over a longer period of time. Options that include fundraising versus budget cutting should be sought out.



Come up with a plan that the faculty, staff, and students can get behind, instead of one that they will be crushed under.