I am the parent of a kindergartner at a school that will be closed in anticipation of the state’s budget cuts to education. This past week I arrived at the school library to volunteer just in time to hear the superintendent break the news to the faculty. The emotional response of the faculty was as distressing as you might expect. The superintendent was not wrong when he said that the gloomy day was a proper herald for the news. I was heartened by the level of concern that the teachers expressed for the students when faced with the news that some of them would not have a job in less than six months. This is what makes our school so special; not the physical school but the amazing teachers who are a vital part of helping our kids grow up.

After some reflection, what I am most upset about is how our teachers will be affected, and how these cuts will affect Groton’s ability to attract new talented teachers. These women and men are the heart of the school and their noble calling is often underappreciated. I understand that budget cuts must be made and I understand that the citizens don’t have bottomless pockets, but our teachers should be protected at all costs.

Liesel Stanhope

Groton