My husband and I moved to Manhasset eight years ago this summer. It was a thoughtful decision based primarily on the quality of Manhasset public education.

As a former director of college admissions, I was familiar with Manhasset's stellar reputation. In fact, prior to moving to Manhasset, I had visited Manhasset High School several times for college recruitment activities. Each visit confirmed the preparedness and academic strength which were the hallmarks of a Manhasset graduate. My colleagues in admissions and I considered Manhasset applicants to be among the finest in the nation.

It was because of this firsthand knowledge that my husband and I decided to raise and educate our children here. We chose this community because of its relentless commitment to education. We were not disappointed. Our road through the Manhasset school system has been a fantastic and exciting journey. The range and depth of academic instruction, co-curricular programming and extracurricular activities have served to enrich the minds and support the growth of our children immeasurably.

I am now, however, deeply concerned for this community and the future of Manhasset schools. I believe the current austerity budget and the growing negativity within the community threatens the very reputation and quality of these great institutions. School districts need to be both responsive and progressive. I am afraid that without any significant forward strides, our schools are in danger of stagnation. Eventually the quality of education will suffer. We cannot rest on our past reputation. This community must ensure that the same educational excellence is available to future Manhasset high school graduates as countless alumni have enjoyed.

If you believe in a strong and excellent education first, then you must vote "yes" for the school budget. This is the only way to strengthen and fulfill our mission to the children in our community. Austerity is a roadblock to excellence. Let's get back on track. Vote "yes" for your own children and for the future of Manhasset.

Laura Bruno