I urge the voters of Auburn to approve the school budget on June 14. This budget, supported by the School Committee and City Council, provides funding to support existing programs with minimal additional spending to meet many needs.
There is no argument that budgets are rising, which often brings an increase in property taxes. No one willingly wants to pay more in taxes, but without an increase in spending, the increasing needs of the students cannot be fully met.
For too many years, the teachers of Auburn have tightened their belts and endured a make-do-with-less reality. It is astounding to see what is being achieved in classrooms on bare bones budgets. Unfortunately, that cannot go on forever. Demands and costs are increasing, while spending has been kept essentially flat.
According to data from the Department of Education, Auburn is last in per pupil expenditure when compared to surrounding towns. In the 2014-2015 school year, Auburn spent $10,322 per pupil. Lewiston spent $10,951, Poland, Minot, Mechanic Falls spent $11,114, Gray-New Gloucester spent $11,263 and Greene, Turner, Leeds spent $12,224. The state per pupil average was $12,551. Auburn is a whopping $2,229 below the state average.
Auburn has outstanding teachers, administrators and support staff. It is difficult to increase spending, but the proposed modest increase will help to provide teachers with some of the additional tools needed to prepare tomorrow’s leaders.
For the children of Auburn, I encourage residents to please vote yes on June 14.
Carl Bucciantini, Greene
President, Auburn Education Association
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