supply lists
September 9, 2005
After the discussion at the recent School Committee Meeting (August 24th), my posting on this website, and conversations with a number of people, some interesting things have been brought forward.
(a) Principals are supposed to be responsible for communications. Perhaps some of the requests were a matter of timing - that the requests went out prior to the $47.5M budget passage. This is plausible for some of the requests, however I have seen requests dated August/September.
(b) The original intent of the lists was probably to assist parent. To provide a list of items that children would need as they entered into new grades. For example, that lined paper or spiral bound notebooks or 3-ring binders would be best.
(c) That some of the requests - Tennis Balls - are not appropriate. Yes, I know what their purpose was - for the bottom of chairs and that used balls would be fine. However, the request did not stipulate that used balls would be fine. However, more importantly are concerns about latex. After concerns about latex allergies amongst the many other health issues a couple years ago, the use of tennis balls at Mitchell Elementary School stopped. So, caution should be used when considering latex and children.
(d) The School Committee votes on a budget based on balancing the requests of all departments and available funds. What if Town Treasurers began charging $15 for the privilege of paying your tax bill. And, did this WITHOUT the knowledge of Town Selectmen. You as a resident would be upset and voice your concern to the Selectmen. This is no different. Schools are supposed to budget for supplies - like copy paper - and the School Committee needs to know if their are concerns and issues related to the amount budget. Otherwise, this is an unauthorized tax on the citizens of the two towns. The School District cannot operate with teachers and principals requesting items without the knowledge and consent of the School Committee.
In conclusion, it is my belief that back to school lists should from here on be approved by a vote of the School Committee. School handbooks and field trips must be approved, even after the approval of the school principal. Requests for financial assistance in the form of back to school lists - especially for community supplies like copy paper - should come before the School Committee.
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Joseph Gillis Jr.
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