May 13, 2010
Dear SBAC Members,
I am writing to express my gratitude and appreciation for your participation in the School
Budget Advisory Committee for the 2010-2011 School Budget. As you are well aware, this has
been the most challenging budget process in many years. With cuts in State Aid, and increasing
enrollment, we have had to evaluate a wide range of options for cost savings and other sources of
revenue. These discussions have been difficult, but I can assure you that the input received from
SBAC committee has been instrumental in many of the difficult decisions which have been made
by the Board of Education. You have recognized that the fundamental role of the Cornwall
Central School District is to provide the highest quality education possible for our children, and
have approached this task with that principal in mind.
Our residents have a lot to be grateful for, as our children have achieved amazing results,
in academics, athletics, the arts, music, clubs and activities. The headlines announcing these
accomplishments can be seen almost daily, and our school district is known throughout the
region as one of, if not the best. As property owners within the district, we all benefit from that
reputation, as new families seek to move into our district, and help keep our property values at
the top of the County.
Now we face our most challenging task – to share our knowledge and experience with
our families, friends and neighbors. No one wants to see their taxes rise, especially given the
state of our economy. However the school budget has been pared as much as possible while
maintaining the programs, teachers and staff which have proven their effectiveness in educating
our children. Cuts across the board have been made, and a large portion of our reserves, our
rainy day fund, has been applied to keep the tax increase to a minimum.
You also understand the impact that the contingency budget would have upon our district.
To eliminate teachers, JV and Modified sports, After-school clubs and activities, and to end our
successful full day kindergarten, would set back our district for years, and devastate our schools.
Our children will suffer the immediate consequences, with more far reaching impacts felt by us
all.
I know you all appreciate the stakes involved in this year’s budget vote; and thank you
for all of your efforts to support our schools.
Very truly yours,
Charles E. Frankel
