May 28, 2008

Dear Parents/Guardians and Community Members:

I am confident that you are aware of the deepening fiscal crisis within your community and the school system. In the last five (5) school years, there has been little or no real growth in your child’s education program. The School Committee has been forced to eliminate programs, close libraries, increase class sizes, lengthen bus routes and generally reduce the educational opportunities that once were provided for your children. Next year, August 2008, will be more of the same. After concessions from the Unions, your School Committee had to again reduce its operating budget (level service) by 1.2 million dollars.

In order to achieve this reduction, nine (9) teaching positions, four (4) paraprofessional positions, and two (2) administrative positions were eliminated and a host of other accounting measures were enacted. These accounting measures include combining accounts, reducing the number of days worked for some key personnel and the implementation of a transportation fee for all grades 7 -12 students who use the bus service. Implementing a transportation fee was a difficult decision, but it is expected to save 2 1/2 teaching positions.

The fee rate has been established at $200 per student (a $500 family cap) and is limited to grades
7-12. This office is currently working on the details and procedures which will be posted on the School District Web page: www.tyngsboroughps.org, as soon as they are in place.

These are difficult fiscal times and the next few years promise even more reductions and cutbacks. I continue to urge you to become involved and knowledgeable and work with the elected officials to determine the future of your school system and community.

Please look for more detailed information on or around August 1, 2008.

Sincerely,

David J. Hawkins
Superintendent of Schools

DJH/ejg