The Newton School Committee meeting on April 2, 2025, highlighted urgent concerns from parents and educators regarding the future of the district's funding and support services. A significant focus was on the critical role of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) teachers, whose positions are at risk due to proposed budget cuts.

Nora, a student, passionately advocated for the continuation of SEL programs, sharing how her SEL teacher, Miss Marillo, has been instrumental in helping her manage anxiety and thrive in school. Nora emphasized the importance of SEL teachers in creating a supportive environment, stating, "To not have them would make it hard for me and for so many other kids."

Lucy Ewens, co-president of the Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) Council, echoed these sentiments, urging the school committee to support the superintendent's budget. She expressed frustration over the ongoing crises in the Newton Public Schools, including rising class sizes and deteriorating facilities. Ewens highlighted the exhaustion felt by parents, stating, "We are so tired of an unreliable school district," and called for a bold stance to secure necessary funding.

Riel Montag, also a PTO co-president, reinforced the need for adequate funding, arguing that the current budget cuts threaten the core values of the district, including diversity and inclusion. She warned that continued underfunding could lead to parents competing over which programs to preserve, undermining the educational experience for all students.

Valerie Grenache, an SEL interventionist, stressed the long-term consequences of cutting SEL positions, explaining that these roles are essential for providing meaningful support to students and preventing crises. She noted that without SEL staff, the district risks regressing rather than progressing in addressing student needs.

Parents like Karen Wenger and Liz Levy shared personal stories illustrating the impact of budget cuts on their children's education. Wenger highlighted the importance of the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) in addressing learning gaps, while Levy expressed concern over the potential merging of classes due to staffing shortages, which could hinder learning for students with diverse needs.

The meeting concluded with a clear call to action for the school committee to prioritize funding that aligns with the community's expectations for quality education. As the district faces significant challenges, the voices of parents and educators underscore the urgent need for a sustainable and supportive educational environment for all students in Newton.