Community Should Let the Schools Know What Cuts It Wants to See

Today, I'd  like to encourage the residents of Brecksville to take advantage of a unique opportunity the local public schools are offering. In January, the  likely will vote on a variety of budget cuts across the district (see the ). They're not doing this behind closed doors. They're doing it with input from the people the cuts will affect: you.

Of course, you can let the board know what you think about issues, either by speaking at a board meeting or contacting a member personally. 

This is a bit different than what I've seen in the past. The school district actively is collecting the community's reactions to its proposed cuts and hosting public meetings expressly for that reason. The administration is presenting the board with options for possible cuts, leaving the decision up to the members. At the last board meeting, the superintendent even updated the original list of options with suggestions from the public. That goes a step beyond merely asking for input.

As a reporter, I will tell you what impact the cuts will have, but I won't tell the residents of Brecksville what cuts they should recommend. The people who should make those recommendations are the ones who live and work in the city, whose children attend the schools and whose future rests in its education system. 

I encourage you to study the proposed cuts and take the time to let the district know what's important to you, either at the next public meeting on Jan. 6 or by reaching out to a district administrator or board member.

It's the same as voting or calling a state representative. Government and public schools are there to serve you. Brecksville wants its residents to remember that — I've heard that message time and time again from officials in my first few weeks covering your city. Take advantage of that opportunity when it's given, and make sure your voice is heard.