To the editor:

As a coach at the junior high and after tutoring in the local school system for four years, I am very disturbed by the cuts facing our school system.

On Feb. 2, the Maine Department of Education announced plans to cut $1.24 million from Brunswick schools. This is on top of deep cuts last year and the loss of about $1 million in federal funds due to the closure of the air station. In total we are looking at a $3 million shortfall next year.

We are facing tough economic times, but cutting education only hurts us more. Education is the best tool we have to create a strong economy and quality jobs.

When companies look for a community to work in, one of their top priorities is an educated work force.

A strong school system also brings families to Brunswick, which again drives our economy.

These budget cuts do not mean cutting superfluous programs. Essential core curriculum, necessary for our children’s intellectual growth and Brunswick’s standing as an amazing place to raise a family, are going to be jeopardized.

I am working with the rest of the legislative delegation to do everything we can to challenge these cuts. I have submitted legislation to help restore and lessen the impact of the cuts.

To better make our case, we need to hear from the community. Please let us know that you are concerned about these cuts so we can let the governor’s office know the people of Brunswick will not stand by and watch our education system be damaged.

You can reach me at [email protected] or feel free to stop by my weekly office hours every Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. at the Little Dog Coffee Shop.

Rep. Alex Cornell du Houx
Brunswick