The Greenwich School District Board of Education meeting on May 15, 2025, highlighted significant concerns regarding proposed job cuts and changes to school start times, drawing passionate responses from community members.

Andrea Kastenvaz, a media assistant with over 15 years of experience, voiced her distress over the planned reduction of media assistant positions. She emphasized the vital role these professionals play in supporting students and staff, stating that their responsibilities extend far beyond checking out books. Kastenvaz described how media assistants contribute to logistics, inventory control, and direct student engagement, helping to create enriching educational experiences. She criticized the decision to cut positions based on inaccurate job descriptions and expressed disappointment in the Board of Education's failure to protect these roles, urging them to seek alternative budget cuts that do not impact frontline services.

In a separate but equally compelling plea, Neva Donovan, a tenth-grade student at Greenwich High School, urged the Board to reconsider plans to move school start times earlier. She argued that the current schedule allows students, particularly those with learning disabilities, to access essential morning support services that are crucial for their academic success. Donovan highlighted the potential negative impact on special education students, warning that earlier start times could exacerbate existing challenges and hinder their ability to thrive in school.

The discussions at the meeting reflect broader concerns about the impact of budgetary decisions on educational support staff and student services. As the Board considers these issues, the community remains engaged and vocal about the importance of maintaining support structures that benefit all students.