Freda Throws Support Behind Education Budget

Despite many parents questioning the Board of Education's decision to eliminate several special education and social worker positions in its proposed 2012-2013 budget, First Selectman Mike Freda has expressed support for Superintendent Robert Cronin's plan.

Speaking in a Q&A on the North Haven Way, Freda said of the budget:

"As far as the detailed breakdown of how the money will be spent, we have accepted the Board of Education"s unanimous and bipartisan endorsement of the budget and have also accepted that Dr. Cronin and his staff feel strongly about the details within the requested increase of 3 percent."

Freda went on to add that his administration has a record of approving the BoE's proposed budgets, saying, "my position has always been, 'Tell me what you really need to effectively organize, fund and manage our education system and I will support you.'"

, many parents and educators argued that the district should put in a higher funding request in order to refill the eliminated positions outlined in the budget.

Tom Marak, President of the North Haven Education Association, wrote in an that funding requests should mirror exactly the needs of the school system:

"In the past, boards would base their requests on the needs of the students and defend those budgets to the Board of Finance. Elected officials and the people of North Haven must be allowed to make decisions based on complete information."

While the Board decided mid-meeting to reintroduce the position of psychologist to the budget—raising the increase from 2.86% to 3%—some feel the concession does not go far enough.

Why wouldn't the BoE propose a budget fully funding all academic needs? Board member Alicia Clapp, speaking at last week's meeting, said it is a matter of credibility. 

"The Town needs to see that we are being careful with our expenses," she explained. "If we put in astronomical requests, we'll lose our credibility as a board."

What are your thoughts on the school budget? Would you support a budget asking for more than a 3% increase in education spending?