To the editor:

I wanted to reach out to make my opposition to the two-tier system known. We moved to this community three years ago solely for the educational system. We wanted to be part of a community where education and the best interest of all students came first. 

The recent actions of the school committee, in particular the mocking and condescending behavior set forth by certain members have us wondering if we made the best move. 

It is clear that the community is split with regard to the proposed schedule changes, it is also clear that the majority of the teachers and families are against the change. What troubles me is the school committee’s lack of planning and poor response to the people.

Through reading published articles about similar changes, in similar communities, nationwide it is clear that this change is less beneficial in more affluent communities. In fact, the change has been found to be detrimental to the youngest community members in many instances. Given this data it seems that a major change is being made that benefits a small (19) percent of the population. Furthermore the town, more specifically the school board, has failed to develop a metric to measure well being in the students. 

It seems reckless to proceed with the change without a plan. I would like to know how my elementary aged children’s well being will be addressed and monitored. My guess is that the effects will be measured retrospectively. This doesn’t cut it for me. I want nothing but the best for my family. I want to be part of a community where the best interests of all students are held in the highest regard. Barrington, you’ve lost the plot. 

At the most recent meetings I found the response of the school committee, specifically that of Megan Douglas to be troubling. I can only hope that Megan’s attitude will be hugely different at the next meeting. Her condescension and mockery were apparent and not appreciated. Her failure to be respectful when the people she represents opposed her plan spoke was nothing but insulting. I can only hope that she and her peers will open their eyes to what the community wants. 

For the sake of the children I can only hope vital, and non vital, cuts will not be made to support the school committee’s agenda. Let’s remember “for the (young) people.” 

Michelle Ristuccia

Barrington