Teacher Raises Concerns

A Letter to the Editor in The Transcript from Susan Chilson, a veteran teacher in the North Adams School District, addressed concerns she has with cuts being made to staff and programs.

A local blogger (who has long-time issues with the administration of the North Adams School District) supports her views by saying that he has "had conversations with dozens (yes, dozens) of teachers who have voiced frustrations over many different subjects in the past couple years." He goes on to say that "I do not think I know Susan Chilson, at least not by name." I find it curious that for someone that has talked to "dozens (yes, dozens)" of teachers, this local blogger does not know Susan Chilson; a North Adams School District teacher for 20+ years - and a former member of the NATA board. How is it possible that someone so close to so many ("dozens") North Adams teachers does not know of Susan Chilson?

I know Susan Chilson; I like Susan Chilson; I respect Susan Chilson as a great teacher & a great parent. I share her concerns and frustration with any cuts made to staff and programs. But let's set the record clear on staff and program cuts.

Staff and program cuts are not exclusive to the North Adams School District. It's unfortunately happening everywhere - locally, regionally and state-wide - for a variety of reasons. In North Adams' case specifically, decisions for cuts to staff and programs proposed in the FY2008 budget are driven by decreased enrollment in the school district. As a result of declining enrollment, cuts to staff can be made without impacting the integrity of the programs. Decreased enrollment has led to, in many cases, very small class sizes - under 15, some under 10 students. For those programs (class subjects), the same students can be served with fewer teachers while continuing to hold class sizes under 20. In regard to Susan Chilson's reference to specific programs that have been cut or reduced, again this is driven by enrollment - (French will be offered at Conte Middle School in 2007-08).

Regarding declining enrollment, some of this is due to declining population in the city - much of it is due to negative perceptions (& in some cases, negative realities) of the middle school - some of it is due to the charter school. Declining enrollment is not a new phenomena. It has been going on for many years.

We will be addressing declining enrollments in part by examining the feasibility of grade reconfiguration. More specifically, converting to K-8's and eliminating the middle school. This will not be a magic bullet - but if implemented (and done so correctly), will likely provide a significant improvement in the academic and social experience of the students in the North Adams schools.

And let me add - the city of North Adams contributes to the school district close to $4 million dollars over the state "required minimum local contribution". If that was not the case, you would obviously see much deeper cuts.