Having recently attended both the West Hempstead School Board meetings since the school budget defeat, I would like to applaud the members of the Board who voted in favor of keeping the budget 'as is.' I find it appalling that there are those who believe that a six vote loss is a sign of a community in which the majority of residents would like a lower budget. Our proposed budget is less than the county average, and barely above inflation. We have a greater number of families moving into town with children, and as this increases the roles, and the need for funds, I commend the board's ability to create a budget that is this precise.

There are many people grumbling over the increase in salaries for faculty and staff. What they must realize is that, by contract, these items must be included in the budget, and defeating a budget will not lower these costs. If, on June 17, 2004, we, as parents, grandparents, future parents, and as a community, do not pass the budget, our children will lose. Not only will the children who are schooled at the West Hempstead Public Schools lose, but those in the parochial schools as well. One must realize that a defeated budget will also impact the community at large. Following are some examples of cuts and decreases we may well see if the budget does not pass:

Senior Citizens activities will be cut;

1. There will be no use of school facilities for anything other than school related activities. This includes sports, clubs meetings, concerts, etc.;

2. We will go to an 8 period day instead of a 9 period day;

3. Full day kindergarten will be cut to half day;

4. Any new equipment that needs to be purchased for our kids, cannot be purchased;

5. All after school activities will be cancelled;

6. Nurses time at the schools (public and private) will be cut. There is no law that requires a nurse to be present in a school.

In addition, any repairs that must be made this year will be put off until next year. Next year, the cost of these repairs will be more expensive. That will add to next year's budget. That will increase the budget. This increases the chance that the budget being voted down and guarantees that you will be digging deeper into your pocket next year. The repairs are put off again. The longer these repairs are not made, the worse shape our physical plant becomes. At some point, we will have a dangerous situation for our children. That is unacceptable.

We must pass the budget when it comes to a vote again on June 17. Please encourage your neighbors, friends and family to vote, and to vote in favor of the budget. If you are not registered, or are unsure of your registration status, our district clerk can register you to vote at the school district offices at 252 Chestnut Street (above the West Hempstead Public Library).

Dr. Salvatore Lombardo

West Hempstead