Looking Forward…

The next three years will be challenging for the Committee and for the District. We are at a point where we need to create a new normal. One where we still offer a high level of instruction no matter what comes our way and one where we instill a renewed sense of optimism into our learning community. We will face the continued effects of the pandemic on our children, and we must be ready to address the social emotional and mental health concerns brought about by a sense of isolation and fear. Isolation and fear is not what we want to be the lesson of the pandemic but one of grit and optimism for a better future.

We will continue to face challenges as our projected enrollment continues to decline. Enrollment declines will bring reduced Chapter 70 funding and reduced appropriations from our two towns. Enrollment declines may influence our ability to maintain level staffing and student offerings if not managed appropriately. Also, increased retirements will drive up post-retirement benefit costs. The social emotional impacts of the pandemic on our younger students may drive up overall student services costs in ways we cannot predict. We need to be proactive and prepared for the evolving needs of the students now and in the future.

Now more than ever, institutional knowledge and experience makes a difference. I pledge to the community to provide steady and thoughtful leadership as we move forward. I ask for your vote on March 28, 2022. In the meantime, keep safe and be well.