LETTER: Consider Donations To Keep CCS Strong

3-19-10 


To the Editor:
Regarding the CCS Budget (A Call to Action):
As we ruminate, discuss and hone our budget for the coming school year, it occurs to me that perhaps there are other substantive measures we can take, in addition to tightening our belt on district expenditures, to make up some of the deficit created by the proposed reduction in state aid. 
While thoughtful cost cutting and monitoring does afford an organization greater solvency, it does so to a point.  Beyond that point, however, the quality of a product or service (or education) becomes compromised.  And when that cutting involves the dismissal of employees, well, you’re putting a dagger into the heart of that organization. 
In my opinion, as an institution concerned with its own long-term efficacy, we the Cooperstown Central School District are ill-advised to cut costs at the expense of some of our esteemed and talented employees. 
Alas, there is an opportunity to maintain the current level of quality and enthusiasm in the school system by giving attention to the revenue side of the budget.  Beyond the real property tax levy, there are established avenues for contributing additional money to the school district. 
Currently, on the 2010/2011 Revenue Ledger, the amount of money appearing on the “Gifts and Donations” line item is $0.  This entry could easily carry a significant, positive balance with the concerted effort of those citizens/entities with both the desire and the ability to bear. 
Also, the not-for-profit Cooperstown Foundation for Excellence in Education (CFEE) “operates independently from the school district for the sole purpose of channeling resources from the greater CCS community to the district schools.”  Money directed here can be earmarked for whatever school-related program you like.  More information on this worthwhile foundation can be found on the school’s webpage.
To community stakeholders who consider teacher layoffs to be counterproductive to the long-term health and vitality of our school system, and who have the discretionary means, consider a near-term investment for the future of our kids and this program. 
With enough participation from a dedicated group of financial boosters, we can navigate our way through this fiscally difficult year.
FINN O. JENSEN
Cooperstown