The Greenwich Board of Education held a significant business meeting on April 24, 2025, addressing pressing budgetary concerns and the potential impact on educational programs. The meeting featured a series of public comments from students, parents, and educators, all advocating for the preservation of key programs, particularly the Advanced Learning Program (ALP).

The discussion began with a focus on the importance of core academic skills and social-emotional learning. Advocates emphasized that the ALP not only enhances academic performance but also supports the emotional development of students. Parents shared personal stories highlighting the positive changes observed in their children since participating in the program. One parent noted that the ALP has been instrumental in preventing classroom disruptions by engaging students who might otherwise become bored.

Several students, including fourth graders from Parkway Elementary, passionately expressed their support for the ALP. They described how the program has allowed them to explore subjects in depth, engage in creative projects, and develop friendships with peers who share similar interests. One student shared her experience of writing poetry and working on a novel, attributing her newfound confidence to the encouragement received from her ALP teachers.

The meeting also addressed the proposed budget cuts, which included a reduction of over $4 million to the Greenwich Public Schools budget. Many speakers urged the Board to reconsider these cuts, arguing that they would disproportionately affect vulnerable students who rely on public education for academic enrichment. They called for prioritizing academic programs over non-essential areas and suggested exploring alternative cost-saving measures.

The Greenwich Organization of School Administrators (GOSA) voiced concerns about the potential impact of budget cuts on class sizes and mental health services, emphasizing the need for personalized instruction. They expressed support for maintaining current staffing levels to ensure quality education.

Former Board Chair Laura Erickson cautioned against rolling back school start times without thorough community consultation, highlighting the importance of maintaining the later start time that has been in place for several years. She urged the Board to seek cost savings that minimize disruption to students and staff.

As the meeting concluded, speakers reiterated the community's strong support for preserving educational programs that foster academic excellence and emotional well-being. The Board of Education was encouraged to keep students' needs at the forefront of their decision-making as they navigate these challenging budgetary constraints. The discussions underscored the community's commitment to ensuring that all students have access to quality education and the resources necessary for their success.