Nationwide, efforts are in full swing to find solutions to the economy issue. Many states have had to pull out unpopular tactics, such as raising property taxes and making deep cuts into various programs. Though many of these actions are unpopular with voters, there has been one positive note within the whole affair: cooperation. Past rivals and the fence between Democrats and Republicans has had to be crossed in order to make many of these deals go through.

This was recently seen in Washington, D.C. when President Obama pushed through stimulus legislation by working out a deal with the G.O.P. With party politics put aside at times, governments are finally learning that working together is the best medicine for a struggling economy. Without a compromise in many cases, budgets would not be passed and solutions would lay mired in a field of discontent. This political cooperation gives the country a measure of hope into an uncertain future.

Other efforts have been successful at staving off real problems for some areas, while others continue to struggle. One area that is having the most problems are local school districts. Reduced tax revenues and cuts in funding allocations has brought numerous challenges to many. Some have had to resort to cutting positions and closing schools. Enterprising districts, especially small ones, are starting to be more strategic with their funds, hiring grant writers to help bring in additional moneys. By thinking with an eye on quality and being creative, many of the smaller districts can weather the financial storm.

The ability of governments, at both the state, local and national level, cooperating and with smart planning, things should improve in time. These are lessons learned that we can take with us into times when the economy is once again strong and full of potential.