Cronin Proposes Increase in Education Budget

Superintendent Dr. Robert Cronin proposed to increase North Haven's education budget by nearly 3% in 2012-2013 at a Thursday night meeting of the BOE.  

The school district's present budget of $44.39 million may rise to $45.66 million if Cronin's proposal is approved by the Board in February. 

Arguing for additional funding for classroom supplies, textbooks, and a host of academic and maintenance programs, Cronin noted the need for North Haven to anticipate imminent changes to statewide core standards for public schools.

Quoted in the New Haven Register, Cronin said of the proposal: 

“There are very significant changes coming down the pike. Forty-three states have adopted common core standards...The standards are rigorous and will require changes.

"The single most important variable of student achievement is the teacher. It is our responsibility to do what we can to support them in their work and have the tools to be effective.”

According to the Register, the superintendent's plan opens up the possibility of reassigning teachers, based on qualifications and certifications, to new positions within the school system, although up to eleven existing positions could be cut.

The 2012-2013 budget, the first proposed by Cronin since replacing Patricia Brozek as superintendent in April of last year, may serve as a chance for the official to introduce popular changes to the district. During the 2011-2012 budget process, many in town expressed the opinion that the proposed BOE budget increase of 1% was too small.

What remains to be seen is if Cronin, whose suggestion last year to eliminate several special education positions in the school system drew a firestorm of public anger, can make a case for the changes that appeals to parents and teachers. 

Do you support the increase in the education budget?