Open any newspaper today and the words “budget cut” are printed multiple times, referring to numerous programs.

But the Continuing Education division of City College seems to believe they should be an exception to these widespread cuts and fee hikes. Some are now even planning to form their own Student Senate to strengthen their collective voice.

Continuing Ed students are protesting the raised fees of 20 classes voted unanimously into effect by the Board of Trustees on Feb. 24. Classes that had cost $55 for a 10-week session now cost $229 for a seven-week term.

These Continuing Ed students have been publicly complaining about the changes since last fall, when at the same time City College students have been paying tuition, buying outrageously priced textbooks, and trying to support themselves.

In a Utopian society, everyone, no matter the age or previous educational achievements, would have unlimited opportunities to any classes desired.

But California’s wallet is empty.

Continuing Ed students have had their bite of the apple, and young students have a right to theirs today.

Over 90 percent of Continuing Ed classes will remain free and eligible for state funding. City College students will continue to be affected by the $4.2 million cut from general operating funds last year, and the $5 million from this year.

For students at City College, we have already had our fees increased for classes required to transfer. But poor college students aren’t complaining to the board or Superintendent-President Andreea Serban regarding essential math, English, and other IGETC courses.

So why does Continuing Ed feel so duty-bound to protest about paying fees for-to give an example-a ceramics class?

A common misconception in our community and among Continuing Ed students is that their property tax goes to straight to local education.

In fact, all property tax goes to Sacramento, where it is divided and handed out among all public colleges in the state. This is what is paying for jewelry making and aerobics at the Schott Center.

Continuing Ed should understand that they are not the only students being affected by these budget cuts. The Santa Barbara School Board just cut $6 million from local schools, which will lay off 38 local teachers and enlarge classroom sizes.

Now is not the time for Continuing Ed students to take a second bite of the apple, when so much youth is yet to have their share.

We should work together to fight the source of the budget cuts.

Instead of rioting at community forums, Continuing Ed students should direct their efforts toward legislation.

We need these students to fight for all classes, not just their own.

United, we are strong.