Letters in Fosters

Today's edition of Foster's contains a number of letters relating to the upcoming School Board elections; they are republished here with the kind permission of the editor:

Not willful

To the editor: I personally know the members the ORCSD School Board accused of violating the Right to Know Law, and I would like to say that they did not willfully violate the law in attempting to hide anything that should not have been made public. Having personal experience with the RTKL I know that in dealing with personnel issues the greater portion of negotiations are necessarily kept private to protect the individuals involved. The actions of the boards were in no way made to knowingly violate the law.

In the last instance, forming the committee to screen potential superintendent applications, the board made their decisions with the approval of two attorneys, the interim superintendent, and their consultant present. They made every attempt to make the process as open as they could.

I have to say watching the machinations, I find David Taylor, and his fans, to be nothing but a bunch of hypocritical, resentful, busybodies with nothing positive to do. If they are so interested in the school district, it would be more helpful if they could have some constructive input rather than spend time trying to tear down the institution. In general their actions at board meetings resemble those of an unrestrained bunch of rabble rousing three year olds.

Arthur Bradbury
Lee


Fresh start

To the editor: It's time for a fresh start on the Oyster River School Board. On March 13, we have the opportunity to begin a new chapter in school board politics with members who are experienced, civil, accountable, and committed to the betterment of our schools. I urge my neighbors to participate in this opportunity by voting for Maria Barth, Ed Charlé, Al Howland and Tom Newkirk. We must remove sitting members Brackett and Kach, both of whom have been enjoined twice by the courts for illegal rule violations, among other failures to the public.

The candidates I support, Barth, Charlé, Howland, and Newkirk, are not only highly qualified but have pledged to follow the rule of law and to work constructively and respectfully with the board. They will usher in a new era of professionalism — Barth, in particular, brings years of school board experience to the position. They will help our district navigate the multiple challenges we face at a time of state budget cuts and rising expenses. They will show respect for teachers and students. They will begin the process of healing so desperately needed in our district after years of backroom deals and insults and bullying. It's time for a fresh start. Vote for Maria Barth, Ed Charlé, Al Howland and Tom Newkirk on March 13.

Julia Rodriguez
Durham


Kach, Brackett

To the editor: The Oyster River school budget is not sustainable. In 2004, budget appropriations were $29.3 million. The proposed budget for 2013 is $38.4 million, an increase of 31% in 9 years. Enrollment declined in that same period by 7%. Our district projects that enrollment will decline another 20% (400 students) over the next 10 years.

This reckless spending trend began more than a decade ago when the school board went on a binge that has yet to slow down. In 1999, the school tax per student was $5,818. In 2013, the school tax per student is projected to be $14,665. This represents an increase of 152% over 14 years, 3 times the rate of inflation.

In 2000, our district had 2,299 students and 133 teachers. By 2011, enrollment had declined by 302 students and the number of teachers increased by 56.

The math isn't working. Sustainable budgets must coincide with enrollment.

A vote will take place on March 13 for the 2013 school budget and school board candidates. Please vote "No" on Articles 5, 6, and 7. Let's also re-elect Henry Brackett and Jim Kach, the only fiscally responsible people currently running for the school board.

Keith Mistretta
Durham


From Howland

To the editor: The recent hiring of Dr. Morse as superintendent of the Oyster River School District and the election on March 13 provide our community the opportunity to move past recent troubles. I'm Al Howland, and I am running for the Durham seat on the Oyster River School Board. I am a former high school science teacher, and am currently an active volunteer in the school district. In the past, I felt that my talents were best utilized helping to build student-enrichment programs. Now, as I have gained experience in our schools, I feel that my educational background would help the school board move forward in a positive direction.

This election has several other candidates with unique skills. Maria Barth from Lee has extensive experience on the Kittery School Board, and her knowledge of Right to Know Law would be invaluable. At-large candidate Tom Newkirk is a nationally-recognized scholar, which is a rare talent in a volunteer position. Dr. Ed Charlé from Madbury has a long record helping both children and their parents with a variety of difficult issues. Combined, I believe that these candidates will be strong but moderate, and will be able to listen to and resolve differing opinions in our communities. Please come out and vote on March 13th. People in any town in the district are able to vote for any candidate.

Al Howland
Durham