Voices

WRMUED educational opportunities for students begin with budget vote

TOWNSHEND — Please vote on June 30 and support your community schools in the West River Valley.

During these uncertain times, our board's aim is to provide stability and direction, and we need the help and support of all voting members. We are excited about exploring future educational opportunities for students of the West River Valley, but it all starts with this critical vote.

If you are a voting member of the West River Modified Union Education District, here is some important information for your consideration:

• The proposed budget was reduced four times after an initial budget of student needs was provided by principals.

• Although the ballot says “over 9 percent per equalized pupil,“ the total budget is up less than 2.8 percent.

• Cost drivers of this budget include many expenses out of the board's control, including declining enrollment, state-mandated health care, and fewer students attending on a tuition basis.

• We are planning for the future to stabilize the tax rate and invest smartly in our students and community.

An informational meeting about the budget will take place Monday, June 29 at 7 p.m. via Zoom.

Please engage in long-term planning. Meetings take place every second and fourth Monday via Zoom. Visit www.windhamcentral.org for agendas, login information, and documents.

If you are a voting member of the WRMUED, please consider visiting your Town Hall and casting this most important ballot. Help us take the next step in the education of our children and the future of our Valley.

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