Letter: Defend our education system and children with special needs

Education should never be a political bargaining chip, yet Rindge and surrounding communities face proposals to cap or cut school budgets, jeopardizing critical programs for special needs students.

These cuts would have devastating consequences for children, families and our community as a whole. Special education programs are legally required and essential for the success of students who depend on them. Eliminating funding for these programs not only limits opportunities for children with disabilities but also places a greater long-term financial burden on taxpayers. When students do not receive adequate support early on, they often require costlier interventions later.

Additionally, efforts to dismantle the Department of Education at the state and national levels would further strip vital funding and oversight from our schools, creating deeper inequities and eroding the quality of public education. We call on our elected officials to defend the integrity of our education system and ensure special education programs remain funded. Our local select boards should also advocate for these protections while working to minimize the financial impact on taxpayers.

A balanced approach is possible, but it requires leadership and community involvement. We urge residents to attend school board meetings and speak out against harmful cuts. The future of our children and the strength of our communities depend on it.

Michael Perrault

Rindge