AUSTIN (AP) – Texas lawmakers quizzed state officials and school superintendents on how well Regional Education Service Centers are doing their jobs.

The Senate Education Committee met Tuesday to hear testimony on how schools share services, both academic and operational.

Senators questioned whether state-funded Regional Education Service Centers are spending those funds effectively in helping school districts share resources. School officials and center directors said they help the districts save money.

Last year the Legislature slashed $4.8 billion in school funding to make up a statewide budget shortfall. Schools have since laid-off more than 10,000 workers and class sizes have gone.

When lawmakers meet again next year they expect to face similar budget shortfalls. The Republican leadership has pledged not to raise government spending, and therefore must find additional savings.

(© Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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