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Students, teachers and union urge board to preserve librarians, arts and other student-facing positions
Summary
Public commenters at the New Haven Board of Education meeting on May 12 urged the board to reverse proposed reductions to librarians, music, arts and other student-facing roles and called for greater transparency on district budgeting and state funding.
Students, teachers and union leaders told the New Haven Board of Education on May 12 that proposed staffing reductions would harm students’ learning and opportunity.
The comments matter because board members will decide how to close the district’s budget gap while educators say those choices risk classroom programs and supports many students rely on.
“Cutting middle school sports is cutting away opportunities for students to build confidence, leadership, and resilience,” said Jason Martinez, a senior at New Haven Academy, during the public comment period. “These people aren't just part of our schools. They are the heart of them.”
Several other speakers recounted classroom-level effects they said would follow from removing librarians, counselors, arts and other staff. “I am horrified that you are considering…
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