‘A critical juncture' for Greenwood Lake students

To the editor: Recently, several ads were placed in the local newspapers in both Greenwood Lake and Warwick. The Tuxedo UFSD paid for these ads. It was implied in these ads that both the Greenwood Lake UFSD and the Warwick CSD were somehow not telling the whole truth about the proposed move of Greenwood Lake’s high school students to the Warwick School District. I certainly can understand the concern that the Tuxedo School District has about the possible loss of 80 percent of its high school students, but I cannot understand why they would make these accusations. For a number of years, Greenwood Lake has sought ways to reduce the cost of sending its high school students to Tuxedo. Committees were formed and much data has been accumulated in an effort to find a solution. It is our duty to be fiscally responsible to the taxpayers of our District. Reducing costs has absolutely been the main focus of my administration. In the three years that I have been the Superintendent of Schools for Greenwood Lake, I have traveled with members of the Board of Education to Albany to meet with New York State Education Department officials and with our elected officials in the government. All of these efforts have not resulted in substantial relief for the taxpayers of our District. We are now at a critical juncture in the future of our District. On Dec. 12 you the voters will have an opportunity to decide whether we should send our high school students to the Warwick CSD. The cost is one of many factors that you will have to consider. I would ask that you look at all the facts and not be swayed by slick advertising meant only to prey on your fears. There will be a number of forums and venues that the Greenwood Lake UFSD and the Warwick CSD will provide over the coming weeks to give you an opportunity to hear the facts and ask your questions. We will inform you about these meetings through the newspaper and through flyers that will be sent home with your children. I urge you to come to these meetings so that you will have a better understanding of the issues so that you can make an informed decision. The future of our children is at stake. I thank you in advance for your interest and concern. John J. Guarracino Greenwood Lake Superintendent of Schools