As you know, last year was a very difficult year for the school system relative to budget matters. We are certainly pleased that the community gave overwhelming support to the override which enabled us to maintain a high level of educational programming. Nonetheless, we did face some difficult choices and unfortunately, ended up losing some people, programs and materials. We continue to be amazed at how well we adapt and how well this district performs in spite of these adversities.
As we consider last year’s budget, one area of concern and misperception that surfaced was the School Committee’s acceptance of a targeted gift to keep the Brick School open for an additional year. That decision generated a lot of controversy and is deserving of some clarification.
The Brick School certainly possesses many historical qualities. Indeed, it is listed on the Federal Register of Historic Buildings, and is purported to be the oldest, continuously operating, one room brick school in America. It has served as a kindergarten classroom in the Davis Thayer district for many years.
However, when the budget for the 2007-08 school year was proposed, that facility was not included because of the necessity of budget cuts amounting to several million dollars. Even with the override dollars, the School Committee was not able to provide funds for its continued operation at the expense of other program needs.
The Brick School Association, a private entity, proposed funding the operational expenses for that facility to maintain it as part of the Franklin school system. In fact, that group was able to raise — with the generous aid of Garelick Farms who donated $18,000 — $27,000 to fund all of the operational expenses for the building for one year.
The School Committee voted to accept that targeted gift for one year. By accepting these funds, the Brick School remained in operation, and the Committee was afforded an opportunity to make a full and reasoned study of the impact of targeted gifts in the future. In fact, a task force was formed to study the Brick School in particular, and the viability of future funding for its operation. At the same time, the School Committee’s Policy Subcommittee will be preparing language for a new policy on acceptance of targeted gifts.
In these tough financial times, it is necessary for us, along with School Committees throughout Massachusetts, to review and consider any and all opportunities which allow us to remain a high performing school district. We will continue to explore options which enhance our system.
It is important that you know that no school budget dollars or programs were compromised in any way in order to fund the operation of the Brick School. For the 2007-08 school year, that facility is operating solely on private funding. The Committee is in the process of drawing lines for future acceptance of gifts, so that we can supplement our offerings without compromising our educational mission and vision.
The School Committee remains committed to moving the district from good to great, and we will continue to push for funding, programs and facilities that serve the best interests of all our students. We thank you for your continued support and understanding.
