Community Invited to Engage in School Budgeting Discussions

The holiday season presents unique challenges for school administrators and board members in Vermont, particularly as they prepare budgets for the upcoming fiscal year. With education finances remaining precarious, community input becomes crucial during this period of planning. Local school boards are currently finalizing budget figures, which will be solidified for final approval by mid-January 2024.

Engagement from the community is essential in this process. The **Rutland Northeast Supervisory Union** is facilitating informal gatherings with **Superintendent Rene Sanchez** to discuss school budgets and other relevant topics. These gatherings, known as the winter Coffee Talks and Library Chats, provide a relaxed environment for families and community members to ask questions, share ideas, and connect with local educators.

Upcoming sessions are scheduled for December, including:
– **December 10, 2023**, from 08:00 to 09:30 at Keith’s Store in Pittsford
– **December 16, 2023**, from 08:00 to 09:30 at Sugar & Spice in Mendon
– **December 17, 2023**, from 08:00 to 09:30 at Morningside Bakery in Brandon

In January and February, additional forums will be held, allowing more opportunities for community involvement. These include:
– **January 5, 2024**, from 15:00 to 16:30 at Maclure Library in Pittsford
– **January 7, 2024**, from 15:00 to 16:30 at the Brandon Free Public Library
– **January 15, 2024**, from 08:00 to 09:30 at Whiting General Store
– **February 2, 2024**, from 15:00 to 16:30 at Chittenden Public Library

In another development, **Tina Rampone**, librarian at **Castleton Elementary School** and **Orwell Village School**, has been recognized as the **Rosen Publishing Northern New England School Librarian of the Month** for November. This honor acknowledges exemplary school librarians across Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. As part of this recognition, Rampone will receive a selection of Rosen print titles for both school libraries and one year of access to the PowerKnowledge Science database.

The **Greater Rutland County Supervisory Union Board** is set to meet on **December 2, 2023**, at 18:00 at the GRCSU Central Office. Additionally, the **Mill River Unified Union School Board** will convene on **December 3, 2023**, at 19:00 at MRU High School.

Community participation in these discussions and gatherings is vital as stakeholders work collaboratively to shape the future of education in the region. Engaging with local school budgeting efforts can help address the challenges facing schools, ensuring that they continue to meet the needs of students and families.