The School Committee received a compelling letter today on the current state of the budget. With the author’s permission, I am posting it below:
Dear Franklin Citizen,
Last year, the citizens of Franklin voted for a tax override to provide additional funding for the public schools. It was a historic victory for townsfolk that believe Franklin should provide an exceptional public education and vital community services. I was never more proud to call this town my home.
The public schools are once again under attack; but unlike last year, an override does not appear to be option. Apparently, town leaders do not rate education as a top priority in the community structure. It is obvious that citizens who value a first quality public education need to be more vocal and proactive. You should demand that education be a top priority of this town. No other town system affects more people, influences the perception of this town as a desirable place to live, and favorably or adversely affects the future of thousands of children and teens.
A recent article in the Franklin Gazette noted that many parents are “curious” about the significance of more school cuts. Unfortunately, curiosity does not make change. The voice which chooses not to put education first and which thinks class size does not matter should not be the loudest voice. If you think education is the most important variable that will influence our future society, it is time to demand the same thinking of town leaders.
From time to time, teachers are on the receiving end of ridicule. Summers off! Out by 3:00! Glorified babysitting! In spite of these comments, we persist. For many of us, teaching is not just a job. Working nights, weekends, and during vacations is not uncommon. We do this for the sake of satisfying professional responsibilities, improving our craft and enriching our students. Meanwhile, the emotional demands of dealing with educational politics, diverse learning styles, wide ranging aptitudes, and a myriad of personalities take a toll. It is not surprising that national statistics suggest nearly 45% give up in the first five years despite the benefits. I am one of many teachers proud to go above and beyond. I am rewarded by the notion that my participation makes a difference. I love to teach, but it is increasingly difficult to be enthusiastic about teaching in a town that does not make education a top priority. I am sure that I am not alone. Other veteran teachers, like myself, are feeling frustrated and disillusioned. When will our town leaders understand the cumulative effects of their educational shortchanging?
Sadly, the real victims are the children. They get one crack at each grade level. For starters, larger classes change the dynamics of classroom management and curriculum delivery. One-on-one attention and small group instruction become unrealistic goals. Special projects and activities are likely impractical to implement. It would not be surprising to see student achievement drop. Consider the following: These children, our children, will be faced with odds that no generation before them has faced. The United States is no longer the sole economic power, and the world has changed more in the past decade than in any other period in history. Too much is at stake. Our children need more than a good education. They need at least a great education. The leaders of this town have their priorities in the wrong place. They should be leading the call to give Franklin’s children an unparalleled education.
Last summer, Franklin was identified as a top ten town to raise a family according to Family Circle Magazine. It was a proud moment for everyone associated with the community. Less than one year later, Franklin’s Town Council and Administrator are preparing to take steps to erode that reputation. If you are curious, concerned or angry about the underfunding of our schools, make your feelings known. Organize yourself with others and stand up for the children of Franklin. The next Town Council meeting is April 16th.
Mark Goguen
4th Grade Teacher
Jefferson School
