Remember The Mission

Of Our Schools

To the Editor,

The annual budget debate is an inevitable rite of spring here in Newtown. Although the names and numbers may change, the issues remain the same. Education proponents will always support a reasonable budget, while the conservative voice will invariably assert the success of the status quo. Each view has its merit. Money, in and of itself, does not materialize into success, and excellent schools are built on far more than dollar signs. However, the inverse also holds true: Insufficient funding will decidedly hinder the pursuit of excellence.

That said, it is indisputable that our school district manages its money judiciously (in fact 95 percent of Connecticut’s schools spend more to educate their students than Newtown does). But rising enrollments and diminished state aid directly impact our budget. Higher than projected health care claims have depleted our fund balance. Technology initiatives, special education costs, transportation expenses, and general maintenance of school facilities consume sizable resources.

What is interesting about the budget process is that while the needs of our schools have been repeatedly scrutinized and endlessly deliberated, the most critical element of all is conspicuously absent from the debate. I am referring to Newtown Public Schools’ Mission Statement: “All Children Can and Will Learn Well.” It is a fundamental, abiding philosophy, yet it remains unexamined simply because it cannot be reduced to a number. Are we missing the forest for the trees?

As a parent, I am inspired by an educational doctrine that truly seeks to reach all children. I realize that it requires Herculean effort and commensurate resources. As a taxpayer, I cannot think of a more promising investment.

Support the Board of Education’s budget, not only because you acknowledge its merit, but also because you believe in its mission.

Sincerely,

Lisa Schwartz

Newtown Board of Education

37 Poverty Hollow Road                     April 18, 2000