LETTER: Get the facts straight

Elizabeth, president, Bordentown Regional Education Association
My name is Elizabeth Brotherton and I am the president of the Bordentown Regional Education Association. In the March 31, 2011 edition of the Register-News, Councilman Bruce Hill was quoted as saying “If you look at what the school is going to do at their next school board election, they’re going to raise taxation by $1 million dollars, not for the kids, but for the teachers’ raises. I’m telling everybody to vote it down because $1 million for raises is ridiculous.”
   It is ridiculous and more importantly incorrect! The Board of Education has provided all of the budget information to the public on the Bordentown Regional School District’s website. In addition, the public has been provided the facts at board meetings, through power point presentations and in numerous publications.
   Mr. Hill needs to know that the figures he quoted are not true. The fact is that teachers’ “raises” are not $1 million but $439,390 in increases and the tax levy is more than 50 percent lower than the alleged $1 million. In addition, the BREA members took a six-month deferment (September 2010- January 2011) in salaries, saving the district approximately $272,000.
   Mr. Hill has also implied that the BRSD staff does not act on the behalf of the students. Our purpose is to work for the welfare of the student, the advancement of education and the improvement of educational opportunities for all. Our communities are only as strong as their schools and this takes constant effort, attention and a continued meaningful investment. The staff of Bordentown Regional School District continues to demonstrate a commitment to the students and educational programs with dedication and enthusiasm.