Voters in the RSU 16 area need to recognize that RSU school board members listened carefully to citizen input and reduced key items in the school budget identified as problems (stipends and salary) by the citizens. Those reductions represent a very real compromise.

The school budget being proposed is about $1.37 million less than three years ago. Regional School Unit 16 is also now 10 percent below the state average in per-pupil costs. The board cut 74 positions during the past three years out of consideration for the local taxpayers and the poor economy. But, this year, increased enrollment in certain programs and state mandates for others have required that 4.75 of these positions be added back — to address the needs of the most vulnerable students.

I hope that all voters will consider carefully the cost of the proposed budget ($1.73/month for a house valued at $100,000 in Poland), recognize the compromises made, and conclude that a fair budget was presented.

Education of the children is too important to hold the schools hostage simply to score a “win.” Voting “no” next week, based on the mistaken belief that the RSU board “didn’t listen” to citizen demands, would only continue the divisive negative politics.

The students are proud of their schools. Voters need to show the students that they can come together to support the students’ future.

I hope others will join me in voting in favor of the RSU 16 school budget on June 21. Every vote counts.

Faye Luppi, Poland