School district must balance needs of students, taxpayers

The Old Bridge school administration just doesn't get it. The 2007-08 budget is $130 million, and the administration's only regret is that they couldn't get more. Old Bridge taxpayers, on the other hand, are outraged that their taxes will be increased even though they are already overburdened. This is not a budget of need, but one of greed.

As an ardent supporter of education, I have been an involved Old Bridge citizen for more than 25 years, and I am a former Board of Education member. I attended this year's finance meetings, and it was apparent that Simon Bosco, superintendent of schools, had no interest in saving money, cutting the budget or operating the school district efficiently. He seemed quick to dismiss numerous suggestions that had the potential of saving thousands of dollars. Bosco's attitude of entitlement was evident as was his disinterest in anyone's concerns.

Had this money been earmarked for improving the education for our students, I would not be writing this letter. At the March board meeting, what I observed was disheartening. Bosco recommended hiring a substitute guidance counselor at a rate of $443 a day. Bosco was indignant that I questioned this expenditure. Only one board member, Matthew Sulikowski, voted no. Adding insult to injury, Annette Hopman, board president, made a point of wholeheartedly approving the hiring. What a total disregard for the taxpayers of Old Bridge.

Public money designated for education is not meant to be spent foolishly, at the whim of the superintendent or Board of Education. In my opinion a school district should be run resourcefully. It should provide students with the tools necessary to receive a quality education while also considering the needs of the taxpayer. It is important that this balance be maintained.

It appears the Old Bridge school administration has lost sight of its responsibilities. The voters have allowed the problem to intensify because of their apathy and low voter turnout on Election Day.

At this point, the most damaging vote is the vote that is not used. Imagine the powerful message voters can send to our Board of Education on April 17. Perhaps then we will get a budget that balances the needs of students and taxpayers rather than a budget that supports the greed of the school administration.

Kathleen Quick

Old Bridge