The Town of Stratford Town Council convened on March 11, 2024, to address critical issues affecting the local education system and community services. The meeting featured passionate public comments regarding proposed budget cuts and their potential impact on students and staff.

The session began with a call for investment in schools, emphasizing the importance of providing necessary resources for students to succeed. A speaker highlighted the need for courage in decision-making, urging council members to prioritize hope over fear when considering budget allocations. The speaker's message resonated with the audience, advocating for a commitment to the future of education in Stratford.

Michael Langston, a resident and father of graduates from the Stratford School System, also addressed the council. He expressed concern over proposed cuts to special services, which he credited for helping his son succeed despite challenges. Langston, who is also the president of Local 376 UAW representing paraprofessionals and cafeteria workers, criticized the council's approach to budgeting. He argued that the reported $2 million surplus was misleading, attributing it to understaffing rather than effective financial management.

Langston warned that further cuts would exacerbate existing issues, leading to larger class sizes and diminished support for students. He described the current state of the education system as a "race to the bottom," where overworked staff struggle to meet the needs of students. He called for transparency and accountability from the council, urging them to reconsider their priorities and the long-term implications of their decisions.

The meeting concluded with a clear message from the community: the council must prioritize educational funding and support for staff to ensure a thriving future for Stratford's students. The council's next steps will be closely watched as residents advocate for a more robust investment in their schools.