Regional School Unit 16 voters will be voting on a third budget proposal on Tuesday, Sept. 17.

According to the Maine Department of Education’s website, the most recent data (2022-23) states that the average per pupil costs in Maine was $17,654.00. RSU 16’s was $14,442.00, well below the state average and below many neighboring districts.

Given the rural character of our towns, our schools’ staff is constantly working to find efficiencies in class structures and transportation, while maintaining facilities which serve as community centers beyond the school day.

RSU 16’s structure and advisory programs ensure that our community’s children have caring adults attending to their educational and emotional needs. The third budget proposal has eliminated some positions; any future cuts may mean the elimination of some programs.

The funding formula is complex. Less than 17% of the budget is determined by the local funding formula. The school board voted Sept. 9 to revisit the formula, but in the meantime, we need to pass a budget for this year.

The budget information is available on the RSU 16 website. This is a one-question yes or no referendum approval.

I hope that citizens will demonstrate their pride and care for our communities’ educational programs, staff, facilities and students by approving the budget Sept. 17 at the Mechanic Falls, Minot and Poland town office polling locations.

Mary Ella Jones, Poland Spring