Where Are We in the Budget Process?

In the coming weeks, you will surely see information in the newspapers concerning Stonington's Budget referendum. I'd like to take this opportunity to share what the current budget contains in terms of the schools, and to emphasize how important each and every vote is to this process.

While we were recently directed to remove $275,000 from the Board of Education's proposed budget, I am happy to report that our 1.35% increase over the current year's budget (FY 2010-2011) will allow us to:

* Maintain BOE's target class sizes

* Maintain current programs for students

* Support the District's Strategic Plan

* Enact recommendations from the Futures Report  (an external audit of Special Services)

* Increase collaboratives with community agencies to support in-district programs in lieu of costly outplacements

* Increase numbers of certified staff (additional 2.5 Special Education teachers), by restructuring use of paraprofessionals

Voting Timeline:

While we typically go to referendum in Stonington in early May, the timeline has shifted a bit due to uncertainties in Hartford.  Here are important dates in the weeks ahead:

May 9th - Selectmen's Mtg. (when the budget is typically sent forward to referendum)

May 16th - Town Mtg. on Budget

May 24th - Voting Day

While we wait for these important meeting dates, one of the most important things that citizens can do is to REGISTER to VOTE!  Voter registration cards can be found in the school offices and at Town Hall.

And Remember:

As you familiarize yourself with the budget details, please consider the following:

A “Yes” vote implies that the proposed budget should remain as is and no further cuts should be made.

A “No” vote implies that more cuts should be made, including additional cuts to the education budget.

Thanks for listening,

Leanne