It's about votes.

You will lose votes if you cut sports. You will lose votes if you cut science, even though the voters generally don't have a clue what science is.

How many people have been inside a library in the last year? How many students talk to their parents about the resources available there?

Librarians are much akin to mice. I don't mean that in a bad way. You're smart but generally quiet. You don't hang out with the "popular" kids or teachers, you tend to be found with others like you, those who pursue intellectual not physical endeavors.

It's about perception and popularity mixed in with a bit of ignorance.

If Johnny's dad, or Joanie's, sees his kid making a touchdown or cheering in front of a crowd, sinking a basket or digging hard for that match point, they feel proud and want those programs to continue so they CAN feel proud.

Sherman and Ophilia, the top performing students, are never seen in such light and therefore the programs that allow them to be all THEY can be, are not as important.

It pretty much sucks.