School Budget: Why You Should Care

By Erin Walsh '12

As of January 4th, 2012, the Trumbull Board of Education approved a budget increase of 5.07% which makes the budget for the 2012-2013 school year $91,878,405. A typical student might think, “That’s a nice chunk of change, but why should I care?” Frankly, deciding the school budget is an important process that requires participation from teachers, administrators, and students alike. This proposed budget increase is going to result in several changes within the Trumbull community.

The meeting of the Board of Education was long, with the fifty participants locked in discussion until midnight. The budget increase they agreed upon addresses several key issues within the Trumbull Education system, the first being the elementary orchestra program. Led by Board Member Tom Kelly, the participants acknowledged the high cost of elementary participation in orchestra, which is currently the fifth highest in the state at $325. A portion of the budget was decided upon to relieve the cost. Additionally, a central issue of the meeting was the preservation of full-day kindergarten. This motion went unchallenged and this as well as the orchestra propositions ultimately passed.

The issue that could most directly benefit Trumbull High School students is the addition of two teaching positions. The Board felt these additions were necessary because of the lack of staff growth despite a 126 student population increase. Board Member and Trumbull High School principal Robert Tremaglio addressed which departments could receive these additions; “Science has been an area of concern because cut-offs have had to be made to coordinate labs. This past year we saw an appetite for Latin among our students, but despite its high demand we simply did not have enough teachers.” Dr. Tremaglio also mentioned how the high school may use one of the two positions to establish a permanent technology liaison. These potential additions to the Trumbull High School staff would allow for greater student enrollment in otherwise over-booked courses.

A critical part of deciding the school budget is the contributions of student representatives. For the 2011-2012 school year, Trumbull’s student representatives are Seniors Emma Connolly and Patrick Curtin, who are both heavily involved in Board of Education decisions. “Board members do ask us for input into certain things about student life that just can’t be communicated in numbers and data,” said Connolly, “They really do want to hear how certain changes could affect students.” Unfortunately, student voice is not always heard by the town. Curtin commented, “[While] we do stay informed of all major votes, on the town side, there are fewer opportunities for student input.”

However, both students maintain that in regard to the education budget, students should be more involved. Connolly expressed that, “…it would be beneficial for students to be more active in the budget process. Each meeting begins with a public comments session, and I think the Board would be enthusiastic to hear from any student who is willing to advocate for something.”

Though the final school budget will not be definitely set until late April, it is important for students to remain informed and involved, as these decisions affect the course of their education.