I thank all of you who voted for and approved our operating budget for the coming school year.
For those who did not vote for the budget, I promise to do all I can so that our school earns your trust and confidence so that in the future you will feel compelled to support us.
Besides their rigorous academics and participation in sports, theater, and arts, our students contribute to the community in numerous ways, from shoveling snow (not as much this year!) to stacking wood, painting, and more.
They have collected and distributed hundreds of pounds of food to those in need, as well as numerous coats, gloves, jackets, and hats. They have brought cheer to several senior citizen centers by singing holiday songs and by just spending time with the residents there.
Each month for the past nine years, students have served lunch at our school to dozens of senior citizens. They also contribute through Interact, a Rotary-sponsored community-service school club.
When students enroll in seventh grade, they begin a community service project and generally perform hundreds of hours of community service. Each day, Green Mountain students give back to our community in many ways.
The Finance Committee, Budget Committee, School Board, and I are keenly aware of our fiscal responsibilities. We go to great lengths to run our public school with efficiency and value, understanding that public education is still the backbone of our great democracy.
We should be proud of our community schools. They are vibrant learning centers where we instill both “roots” and “wings” in our young people. My goal for our Vermont students is that they not just contribute to society but change our society for the better.
Please do not hesitate to contact me with questions or concerns.