My name is Katelynn Fillion. I have sadly found out that a recent budget cut proposal has placed the Child Development and Laboratory Preschool programs at risk for being cut. Unfortunately, about three years ago, I was here writing another petition about the same proposal, and thankfully we were able to come together as a community to save the program. 

I am proud to say that I was a preschool student in this program as I was nearing the age for Kindergarten, and years later, I still have my scrapbooks from my teachers (my "special teachers") made for me with all of our memories together. When I was preparing to enter the high school, I was so excited to be able to work towards becoming a teacher for the Laboratory Preschool program. I went through the program, and despite COVID, I was able to teach in the school for two years. I learned so much about becoming an educator, was inspired by the children, my peers, and the amazing teachers who worked so hard to support us as we were learning and growing. 

I can say for certainty that I would not be the young woman I am today without this program. I am now an EEC certified teacher at a local preschool, and am completing my full time student teaching placement at an elementary school in town, just one month away from receiving my licensure to teach on my own. The laboratory preschool program was a foundational part of my education, and my inspiration and drive to become the best educator I could be. 

I know that countless people of all different ages and walks of life share a very similar story to mine, and I can only think of the people this program has yet to impact- both preschool students and high schoolers alike. Many families in our town have had students or either age become a part of this program in some shape or form, and the existence of this program is something that has touched, benefitted or supported many people in our community. The removal of this program would set current students on track to become teachers in the preschool off their educational path, remove child care from families in our community and staff within the district, and cause more harm to the community than first glance may give away. 

Please take a moment of your time to sign and share your experience and support for the program! Please also consider sharing the link to this petition on social media, and take other forms of action, such as writing an email to the school committee and attend the school committee meeting on April 14th.