I have had a 40-year career in education. I have seen public education from several different perspectives; as a teacher, a principal, and a district administrator. I tend to get right to the point when problem solving. This comes from being raised in a military family. My father retired as a major in the United States Army. He never shied away from problems and taught me the importance of honesty and fighting for your beliefs. I have carried those values throughout my career.

When I joined the administration of an at-risk school district in the Berkshires as a district administrator, the district was a Level 4 … when I left it had reached a Level 2 status. It was there that I learned searching for solutions involved identifying and addressing problems people least want to talk about.

Greenfield schools have many issues that need addressing. Funding is only part of the solution, but it is time to stop vilifying those who ask questions about the budget. If the School Committee can’t make a solid case for its own budget, how can we expect the City Council or public to support it? Our per pupil spending has gone from $16,847 in 2020 to $21,773 in 2023 yet there has been no improvement in educational results. Despite enrollment decline, we have largely kept the staffing model the same except for adding many high paid administrators.

I believe the funding we receive for our schools is not reaching the children. We need a fundamental shift in ideology that believes in increasing pay and retention for teachers, instructional assistants, and those who have direct contact with students and have the most impact on learning.

Another problem that needs action is the reading crisis in our schools. Reading is basic to all future academic progress and should be addressed like the emergency it is. I question the budget not because I want to give funds back to the city, but because I want it used to get the best results for our children. Five million dollars should not be put in reserve when we have critical reading needs. We need to prioritize reading specialists for our elementary schools.

We keep doing the same thing and somehow expect better results. It is time we not only celebrate our strengths but take a hard look at our areas of need. I am committed to working with all those who value public education in Greenfield. I ask for your vote on Nov. 4 to continue working for the children of our public schools.

Melodie Goodwin serves on the Greenfield School Committee and is seeking reelection.