To the editor:

Since 2015 there have been no taxpayer funded increases to the school budget. None. In fact, total increases averaged only .6%, well below inflation. During that same time span, when infrastructure funding through the overall town budget was eliminated, savings were used to build school reserves to pay for millions in building and technology improvements. No, that is not a typo.
Despite all the “information” in mailboxes, robocalls and negative letters about school spending, the school department has gone about quietly and effectively managing every single dollar they have received. Yet every year the budget cuts center around the schools. Every year the school department is positioned as the boogeyman. Learn the facts.

This year with non-tax revenue finally available, the new superintendent is asking for additional funding to help offset increased costs and help turn around the district. Budget #2 enables him to move the district forward, instead of forcing him in his first year to cut and move backward.

And don’t be misled about reserves. In addition to building and technology upgrades, reserves are an important tool in managing school spending responsible for 1,800 students. Schools can't just shut down in the middle of the year when a new student arrives who needs expensive out of district care or a boiler shuts down.

Vote Budget #2 on May 18 at the high school to lower your taxes and support your schools. Good schools help all taxpayers, not just those with children.

Deborah Pallasch

Tiverton