To the editor,

I am writing in response to Kathleen LeClair’s letter to the editor, published on April 19, 2023, regarding equity and diversity spending in schools. While Ms. LeClair is entitled to her opinion, her letter contains several inaccurate and misleading statements.

Firstly, the idea that spending on equity and diversity endeavors is a waste of taxpayers’ money is misguided. Equity and diversity initiatives are essential for creating inclusive school environments where all students can thrive. Research has consistently shown that schools that prioritize diversity and equity initiatives have higher academic achievement, better social outcomes, and lower rates of bullying and harassment. Moreover, the expenditure figures cited by Ms. LeClair are taken out of context and do not accurately reflect the value that these initiatives bring to the community. It’s important to note that the $140,000 spent on these initiatives was spread over a two-year period, which amounts to an average of $70,000 per year. When you consider that our annual school budget is roughly $19 million, the amount spent is a small fraction of the overall budget, representing 0.39% of the total funds.

Secondly, the notion that school committees are ignoring the issue of vaping and other harmful behaviors on school premises is untrue. While equity and diversity initiatives are important, it does not mean that school committees are neglecting other issues. In fact, many school districts have implemented programs to address vaping and other harmful behaviors among students. The district has policies in place to curb vaping, and as a parent I have been offered free district educational resources for families looking to learn how to discuss the harms of vaping with their children. Therefore, the idea that the district is choosing to focus on equity and diversity at the expense of other issues is a false dichotomy.

Furthermore, Ms. LeClair’s refusal to share the school committee’s response to the Open Meeting Law complaints raises concerns about her commitment to transparency and accountability. If Ms. LeClair wants to hold the school committee accountable for its actions, she must also be willing to be transparent about her own actions.

It is also worth noting that the proposed budget, which includes the teacher position cut, was discussed at an open hearing on March 15th, where the public was encouraged to attend and provide feedback. I attended this meeting in its entirety and sat through a detailed review of the proposed SY2023 budget. However, Ms. LeClair did not attend the hearing and did not raise any objections to the proposed budget at that time. To suggest that the school committee is neglecting the issue of vaping at the expense of other budget priorities is simply not accurate. It is important that we engage in constructive dialogue and work collaboratively to address the complex issues facing our schools.

In conclusion, equity and diversity initiatives are vital for creating inclusive environments in our schools, and the expenditures associated with these initiatives are a necessary investment in our children’s future. We must reject false dichotomies and work together as a community to ensure that all students have the support they need to succeed.

Sincerely,

Thomas Kearns, Mattapoisett