Submitted by Beth MacGillivray, D7 RTM member, Legislative & Rules Committee
Last year, the BET granted the Board of Education (BOE) a full 5.6% budget increase – an unprecedented show of support that reflected our shared commitment to quality public education. That full raise was granted with the understanding that it would help drive meaningful improvements in our schools. However, this year the BOE, again under Superintendent Dr. Toni Jones, is seeking another signification raise of 5.1%. The BET has recommended a more measured 3% increase.
This recommendation is not an attack on education; rather it is a fiscally responsible and reasonable request. The proposed budget is already the largest in our town’s history. A 3% increase still represents strong investment – while also ensuring we are mindful of our community’s financial realities.
It is also important to recognize that our school enrollment has declined by 500 students (K-12) over the recent years. While some reports attempt to obscure this trend by adding PreK numbers, the standard metric (K-12) tells a more honest story. Fewer students should at the very least prompt a reassessment of how and where we allocate resources.
Additionally, teacher absenteeism remains extremely high, and academic performance continues to lag despite last year’s significant budget increase. These realities suggest that it is not only about how much money we spend, but how wisely and effectively we use those funds. Greenwich has been lagging on test scores, not a good trend for our town.
The time has come for thoughtful evaluation and focused prioritization, not scare tactics. Every dollar we allocate should be clearly tied to the mission of improving student outcomes and supporting our teachers in meaningful, measurable ways. Increasing a budget year after year without clear results does a disservice to our students and our tax payers alike.
Let’s support our schools not just with dollars – by with accountability, transparency and a shared commitment to excellence.
Let’s restore the pride Greenwich once held as a model for public education.
With respect and hope for our future,
Beth MacGillivray
D7 RTM member
Legislative & Rules Committee