I am a sophomore at Greenfield High School and I have attended school in the Greenfield District since fifth grade. The condition of the school district is important to our community and cutting the budget of the schools compromises our community and the education of our youth. Instead, I wish the City Council could have a discussion about putting money back into the school budget by taking money out of other departments.
In particular, the police and fire departments requested budget increases and received 11.05% (Fire Department) and 11.65% (Police Department) increases. I do acknowledge the importance of having a well-supported first responder unit but Greenfield will lose young, inspired first responder workers if children are not encouraged to thrive as a result of the quality of our communities’ schools.
As a student, I am also worried about my opportunities being reduced. I am disappointed that young children might not have an accessible way to express themselves through music if the Strings for Kids program is eliminated. As well, I’m concerned about middle schoolers potentially not having the opportunity to play sports which improves their social development. It is important to listen to the ideas and opinions of the residents of Greenfield, especially the students as we are being significantly affected by the final decisions. Listen to the youth.
Isabella Semonelli, GHS 10th grader
Greenfield