Lisa Russell Advocates for Mountain Valley High School Budget Amid Proposed Cuts

The RSU 10 Board Workshop held on March 31, 2025, featured a significant discussion led by Lisa Russell, a math teacher at Mountain Valley High School, who addressed the pressing issue of budget cuts affecting the school district. Russell, also a parent and taxpayer in Rumford, emphasized the importance of maintaining educational integrity and the mission of RSU 10, which aims to engage all students and maximize their potential.

Russell acknowledged the necessity of budget reductions but urged the board to consider the implications of these cuts on essential educational programs. She highlighted the need for a robust post-secondary aspirations program and additional language options to meet the requirements for students aiming for four-year colleges. Russell pointed out that Spanish alone would not suffice for the diverse student body.

Furthermore, she advocated for the continuation of elective courses to prevent students from being idle during study halls and stressed the importance of retaining key staff members, such as Deb Alden, who has offered to oversee special education without additional cost. Russell noted the positive impact of having staff like Ross, who facilitates communication between students, families, and educators, underscoring the value of these relationships in supporting student success.

In her remarks, Russell called for a reevaluation of priorities, urging the board to focus on staffing and educational needs rather than non-essential expenditures like new floors and bleachers. She concluded by asking the board to carefully consider the long-term consequences of any proposed cuts, advocating for creative solutions that would uphold the integrity of the educational programs at Mountain Valley High School.

The meeting underscored the critical balance between budgetary constraints and the need to provide quality education, with Russell's passionate plea serving as a reminder of the potential impact on students and the community. The board's next steps will be crucial in determining how these discussions will influence future budget decisions and educational offerings.