The RSU 16 School Committee is asking for budget approval from citizens of Poland, Minot and Mechanic Falls.

Based on citizen feedback, the School Committee has reduced the proposed budget for 2011-2012 from $18,146,283.33 to $17,872,755.15.

The per pupil cost last year was $8640.60, which is 10 percent less than the state average of $9631.72.

There have been many cuts in the past five years, including reduced music instruction, only one foreign language beginning in the ninth grade, and reduction in custodians, ed techs, kitchen staff, teachers and administrators. Further reduction will likely result in an increase in class sizes.

One of the consolidation requirements is to equalize pay for staff; an individual in an equivalent position with 10 years experience receives the same salary in all three towns. The staff members, many of them friends and neighbors, took four unpaid furlough days last year.

The School Committee realizes times are difficult, but the children did not create the economic issues. They are the future, and need to be provided with the opportunity to be properly prepared to provide health care, build roads and solve energy problems.

I hope others will join me in support of the schools.

Mary Ella Jones, Poland Spring