I support a 2.96% increase for the education budget because:

The 8-year average has been 2.79% per year, so 2.96% is fiscally responsible.

The budget started at 4.01%, and has already taken cuts - 8 teachers, 5 paraprofessionals, and 1 technology position.

Textbooks and curriculum development are a focus of this budget, to ensure compliance with the mandated Common Core standards.

94% of the budget is contractual in salaries, benefits, trans. fuel & heat energy.

I support a capital improvement budget for our school systems to include:

K-12 Building Committee to obtain architectural drawings and cost estimates to determine the best method for updating the elementary school buildings.

A 5 year replacement plan for technology upgrades to provide the tools our teachers need to enhance learning.  We are 9-10 years behind and putting band aids on our current systems.

Security measures to ensure a safe school environment, including the construction of security walls, fencing, communication systems, security lights, cameras, code red buttons, and consistent lock sets.

Repairs for major items/systems such as roof, electric, plumbing, asbestos abatement, and fire systems for proper maintenance, code compliance, and expansion as needed.

I do not support any further proposed cuts from The Board of Finance, as it would cause serious shortages in funding that impact the quality of education and safety in our schools:

Further reductions in teachers mean increasing class sizes beyond the current proposal of 19-23 students.

I do not support layoffs of faculty and staff, as the current budget is achieved through reduction in hours and retirement.

Budget cuts would leave no allowance for new textbooks or curriculum materials.  Classes are already short and students share, go without, or use old editions.

Aging building systems will create a hazardous environment for staff and students if they continue to go unaddressed.

By signing this petition you acknowledge that you are of voting age and a resident of the Town of Stonington.

Thank you for voicing your opinion – in the Town of Stonington every vote counts!

- Members of the Stonington PTOs