To the editor:

School Administration and School Committee: you need to listen to your employer, we the taxpayers! As a parent of two recent BHS graduates (2018 and 2020), we are deeply opposed to de-leveling classes. Having Honors classes allowed my students to push themselves voluntarily, and they thrived in that environment. These classes prepared them for AP classes and University. The point is they had the choice to choose what worked for them.

For students who need a little extra help, conceptual courses are essential to many and enable them to progress at their own pace and succeed. Even though anyone who wants to take Honors courses can, the "barriers" discussed for some students would worsen with de-leveling. Where will they get the support to complete the elaborate projects required for an Honors distinction under the de-leveling plan? Why not provide extra support and mentoring to the small numbers that need it instead of punishing the much larger number who seek a more challenging path?

The whole thing makes no sense! Is a lower "equal outcome instead of equal opportunity" the real goal here? Are we like Castro's Cuba now? Are green fatigue uniforms for all students and citizens next?

Right now, BHS is a high-performing high school, as proven by all the top rankings earned over the years. Entirely disposing of a system that is working for so many is not the answer. Parents sacrifice so much to live in Barrington, primarily due to the excellent schools. Often, people move here for the schools.

We are the taxpayers, the employers of our school administration, and the customer, so our voice should be what counts. If the parents' and students' values starkly contrast with those of the administration, then replace the school leadership with people who listen to their employers and customers and hold similar values. De-leveling is not in the students' best interest, period. This abuse of government power and steam-rolling of changes not wanted by the town's citizens needs to end. Our students, all students, deserve better. Every citizen of Barrington needs to be active in this debate; it will affect our town's quality and desirability well into the future. Stop de-leveling now.

Pete and Laurie Dolan

Barrington