Committee member Ron Spangler reported to the Think of Our Kids e-mail list on Feb. 27 that about 10 people spoke at the one-hour public hearing. All but one said don't cut elementary sections. Many of these were Dallin parents.

Former School Committee member Barbara Goodman pointed out that without additional funding from the state, the School Committee can only make the least-bad budget decision regarding education for our children. We don't have the option of making good decisions, he reported she said.

Committee Chair Susan Lovelace presented the results of the committee's online budget survey. The results, and Susan's presentation, are available at www.arlington.k12.ma.us/home/

In a nutshell, the message was raise fees before cutting teachers -- even from the people who would be affected by the fee increases.

Committee members voted to direct the superintendent to build alternative budgets, according to committee minutes.

On a motion by Jeff Thielman and seconded by Sean Garballey, the superintendent was directed to build an alternative budget to reflect state community priorities by proposing ways to increase fee revenues in order to retain teachers and preserve small classes.

Pursuant to policies JJD “Student Activity Fees” and JFABA “Kindergarten Fee Policy,” the alternative budget must assure that no student is denied the ability to participate in any activities or all day kindergarten due to financial reasons.

Raising fees is an undesirable step, the minutes say. The superintendent must make all efforts to minimize fee increases while reflecting priorities expressed through the online survey, tonight’s public hearing and School Committee discussion.

The alternative budget is to be given to School Committee members and made available to the public no later than Thursday, March 6,in preparation for the School Committee’s schedule vote on the FY ’09 budget on Tuesday, March 11.

The vote was unanimous, 7-0.

One person has commented on this article.

 1. One Proposal to Rule Them All?
Carl Grivakis, Unregistered

In my career it's usually expected to create at least three options for the client, then you offer a couple revisions to the best option. I am glad that Nate's been directed to look at other options for closing the budget gap, this will provide people with a better choice for such a tough decision. Can't wait to see what they come up with.

 Posted 2008-02-28 06:50:05

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Comment(s) :	[quote=George Rautenberg]Aww this is so sad. And to think I tried to cover my tracks after going in there : P all in vein.. ohh well I guess[/quote]

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