Many of those attending questioned the addition of several administrative jobs.

JAY – The School Committee heard from opponents of teacher cuts at the elementary school and supporters of a special education student Thursday night.

Community members filled the Jay Middle School library to discuss the recommendation of cutting three elementary school teachers and making a full-time art position part time.

“This is leading us on a path toward mediocrity,” said Sherry Gilbert.

Despite the recommendation coming from Superintendent Robert Wall, many teachers and residents disapproved. The loss of the jobs would mean large and more cramped class sizes, less direct involvement between teachers and students and loss of opportunity for an education in art, they said.

Sharon Huff, a member The Concerned Elementary Educators, wrote in a newspaper article, “Class size makes a difference in the individual attention, activities, and experiences each student may benefit from.”

Many of those attending questioned the addition of several administrative jobs while eliminating teaching jobs.

Many passionate and outspoken members of the school community also spoke on behalf of a special education student who wants to walk with his peers during graduation ceremonies.

The student, who has enough credits to graduate, has been urged to take on a fifth year in order to build a stronger foundation. State law bars any student who receives a diploma during graduation from an extra year of schooling.

“This student should be recognized, and I urge you to do right by this young man,” said Mark Amero.

The School Committee sought legal advice and ruled that the student would be able to participate in all graduation activities, but receive a certificate of achievement at this year’s ceremony.

“The student will be able to attain his diploma during next year’s graduation ceremony,” Chairman Clint Brooks said.

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