To The Editor:

We all share the goal of providing a strong education for our children. However, the current Board of Education budget is not sustainable and will place an increasing burden on taxpayers.

It is important to understand that under Connecticut’s Minimum Budget Requirement (MBR), enacted in 1975, the town cannot appropriate less to education than it did in the prior year, except in limited circumstances. Unlike the town budget, we do not have line-item control over the Board of Education budget. Once the total appropriation is set, the Superintendent determines how any necessary reductions are implemented.

This year’s proposed Board of Education budget is $95,561,919. If approved, that figure becomes the starting point for next year’s budget, and at the current pace it will likely exceed $100 million.

Over the past 20 years, the Board of Education budget has increased by $35.1 million while student enrollment has declined by 1,812 students. In just the last three years, spending has increased by $10.5 million.

For years, the primary argument against meaningful budget restraint has been that any reduction will “hurt the kids.” While emotionally powerful, this is not a financial analysis. Our children continue to receive excellent education, and Newtown’s schools remain among the best in the state.

Demographic trends also suggest enrollment growth is unlikely. The national fertility rate has fallen to approximately 1.5 children per woman, far below the 2.1 replacement rate needed to maintain population growth.

We can support our children while respecting the taxpayers who make these investments possible. Educational excellence and fiscal responsibility are not mutually exclusive.

This letter reflects the views of the undersigned as residents and taxpayers of Newtown and does not represent the official position of the Board of Finance.

Steve Goodridge

Amybeth LaRoche

Newtown