To the editor:

As we enter the 2018 budget season, I believe it's important to share a few thoughts regarding the Tiverton School a.   As a sitting School Committee member, I’ve witnessed the thoughtful diligence of so many who work in our schools to educate our children. It truly angers me that some local politicians engage in an annual exercise of criticizing the financial management of the district.

Here are some facts. Tiverton Schools serve over 1,800 students and employ about 250 people, making them the town's largest employer. About half of those employees live in Tiverton, and they pay taxes just like everyone else. They are mindful of the budgetary constraints, spending only when necessary, and only for the benefit of their students. Furthermore, they are among the lowest paid school employees in the state of Rhode Island. The district's operating budget of about $30 million is comparable to that of a small corporation.

The restricted fund balance of approximately $4.4 million is comprised of $2.8 million committed to specific projects including safety, technology and infrastructure improvements. The remaining $1.6 million is currently uncommitted. This amount gives Tiverton Schools the flexibility to either take on additional projects or pay for unexpected budgetary shortfalls. Because the $1.6 million represents 5% of the FY19 operating budget, the School Committee is not asking the Town of Tiverton for any increased funding for FY19.  This is the second year in a row that taxpayers will not be paying any increases to fund school operations.

Please support our schools and their employees. They care deeply for our children, and they deserve to be treated with respect. Politically motivated attacks do nothing but aim to destroy the perception of our community and the caliber of its schools.  They also reaffirm our resolve to fight for the best for Tiverton’s public schools and its students.

Diane Farnworth

Tiverton