June 10, 2008

Dear Mayor Bloomberg,

I am the parent of a child who attends PS/IS 87 in Middle Village, Queens. I am outraged that this school received a higher percentage budget cut than many other schools. Our school was cut 3.47%. Our school has one of the largest special needs populations, and has served our children well without a surplus of funds. Last year school programs had to be cut – but the children still received a well rounded education. These budget cuts are now affecting our kids.

By taking the money away, the students will not be able to get academic intervention supports. These supports have been crucial in terms of getting our children to meet and exceed the state standards. Our children will not be able to continue with their music and arts education which have been built into the school day so that no one loses out. The school can no longer purchase the math materials that the students need including workbooks, support materials, and parent guides. The school will no longer be able to purchase supplies for both the students and the teachers.

The school has lost teachers during the past few years but the impact was not sharply felt. Now, these budget cuts are directly hurting my child and all of the children at PS/IS 87. This is intolerable and unacceptable.

I am respectfully requesting that the funds be immediately reinstated and am asking for your assistance in advocating for our fund restoration.

Sincerely,

____________________
Anne M. Brennan
Parent of Leigh Brennan
PS/IS 87