A Day editorial makes the case for the region's magnet schools, "Proof magnet school concept works," (March 1), in describing the award-winning Marine Science Magnet School in Groton and Principal Nicholas Spera.

The Board of Directors of the Regional Multicultural Magnet School (RMMS) Foundation in New London, America's first inter-district elementary magnet school, extends congratulations. Established in 1991 during consideration of Sheff vs. O'Neill case, RMMS offers voluntary racial integration at K-5 education levels.

The Day editorial also says that funding is a problem for our magnet schools. True. Connecticut must provide equitable funding to these excellent magnet schools.

At RMMS we have resorted to private funding by forming a 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation that raises additional money to pay for educational enrichment programs. We also have an endowment fund for the long-term benefit of our children.

Recent funding has gone to travel risers for the Chorus, a trip to the Brooklyn Museum and an Ethno-botanical study of New London's trees. This spring our students may go to the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center. And we have a special fund for the Williams Park in New London.

Magnet schools work better with a little help from their friends.