However you look at it, this is a year of painful cuts – $1.24 million out of our existing programs and services. Even with the top goal of keeping our values intact in our core classrooms, these are tough cuts. They affect all of us – with budget cuts that hit teachers, supplies, support services, and administration. I am deeply pained by these cuts, and their impact. And yet, I’m convinced that there is not room to increase our budget. Whatever changes may be made throughout this process, we will still face cuts of this magnitude.
What happens now? This IS a time for you to respond to the Board’s Budget Proposal. The Board has historically listened well to the community and if possible, made changes to the budget during the hearing phase. I hope that you will ask questions, share your thoughts with your building principals, post your comments here and follow the Budget hearings as the final budget is shaped.
You can get information about the budget (and answers to questions you’ve raised throughout the process) in the Budget Section of this blog.
The next budget hearing is Jan. 5 at 7pm at BHS. On Jan. 12, after public comment, the Board must finalize the budget that goes to the voters on town meeting day in March.
While this budget is difficult, I appreciate the work that each of you does, every day. I see how hard you work to help every one of our children succeed, sometimes against challenging odds. I hear about how you go above and beyond the “call of duty” to help our students and families. I admire and am deeply grateful for your commitment and your expertise. Though we face challenges, I know that we will continue moving forward with our vision of providing excellent educational opportunities for every child.
I wish each of you a safe, happy, healthy break and much-deserved time to reflect and enjoy family and life. See you in the new year.
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