TO THE EDITOR: THE NORTHFIELD NEWS

The 2009-2010 school budget is up for its 3rd re-vote on Tuesday, June 9 at the Roxbury Town Hall (school gymnasium/cafeteria) from 10a.m. - 7 p.m.

The current budget reflects a decrease from our original budget presented on town meeting day of $32,427. The elementary school budget alone reflects a decrease of $62,419 (-9.28%) from last year. The overall increase from last year's total school budget is $30,287 (1.87%), which is largely due to secondary education costs. We have tried to be responsive to the feedback we have received while also working hard to minimize cuts to the fundamental programs offered at the elementary school.

As with the last two budgets put to vote, this proposed budget does reflect a decrease. Overall we have decreased money budgeted for equipment and supplies at the elementary school. Salaries and benefits of elementary school staff have been adjusted to reflect the finalized negotiated teachers contract. The busing contract has been renegotiated and has come in below last year's cost. An additional half day per week, which had been added to the principal's position, has been taken out putting the principal position at the elementary school back to half-time. Additional figures for secondary students' tuition came in and reflected a decrease from our original budget estimates, as did special education transportation. These cuts and adjustments are leaving us with a budget we feel we can operate under while maintaining the quality of education in Roxbury, and we ask for your support.

If you have further questions, feel free to contact any of the board members. There will also be an informational meeting at the Roxbury Town Hall the night before the scheduled vote on Monday, June 8th @ 6:30 pm, after our regularly scheduled Board meeting at 5:30 pm. Copies of the amended budget are also available at the Roxbury Village School, the Town Clerk's office, and the WSSU offices.

THE ROXBURY SCHOOL BOARD: Michelle Dickinson, Board Chair

Deborah Van Ness, Vice Chair

Amanda Melville, Clerk