I, for one, know very little of how a high school should make cuts to balance a budget. I am capable, however, of being able to imagine how certain changes may affect a district; and, as a Pentucket student, I have witnessed many changes.
Every year, we face a new scare where certain programs are attacked during budget deliberations. Last year, Art Departments cuts were made, the entire Business Department was gotten rid of, and we were even informed that 38 staff members would lose their jobs. Yet through parental and student support, speeches by the people at School Committee meetings helped important programs survive.
Here's this year's dilemma: The School Committee has reviewed a plan, drafted by the superintendent, that entirely eliminates athletic funding by the school district. That means sports would have to be supported by 100 percent fees! Sadly, this proposition has received little publicity. Pardon the informality, but, are you kidding me?
Let's imagine the repercussions of this measure. Fees at Pentucket are already ludicrous. The simplest sports, such as track and cross-country, cost over $250. Even worse, football and hockey are nearing the $1,000 range per year. While a family cap has been implemented, keeping kids involved is much too costly. Proponents of this motion will argue that athletic cuts will not necessarily spell the end for sports. Let's be realistic: Potentially doubling sports fees will definitely lead to a loss in participation, coaching jobs and teams all together.
Also, what happens if you take away sporting opportunities for some students? They'll have too much free time. I'd be lying in saying that it would be spent on more homework (We have plenty. Thanks!). Crime rates are highest where kids have too much idle time. Not to say we will become some crime-ridden area; but, I am proud of this tight-knit, safe community and would hate to see that ruined.
Also, school pride and student camaraderie stem from athletic events. Athletics also allows for the recognition of talented Pentucket individuals. This is crucial for college-bound upperclassmen because, as I know all too well, colleges are looking for the most well-rounded, morally sound individuals. What better way to accomplish this than through healthy competition? In summation, our students could be more likely to be passed by in admissions offices.
Sports are part of the pride and joy at Pentucket, in partnership with arts and academics. Through the ranks, we truly are some of the most talented kids out there. A number of teams and individuals make it to state-level competition and beyond. My participation in soccer and track has been the highlight of my Pentucket experience. There's a reason alumni attend games religiously on breaks. Will I even be able to attend events after graduation?
Taking sports from true athletes is unjustifiable. It denies them a critically important school-age experience. How has this gone unnoticed? From one Pentucket student to all who read this, I urge you to make some noise to reserve opportunities for student athletes. Perhaps consider spreading the cuts. We are, as I said, a community. We should be willing to make some sacrifices for one another.
In conclusion, I ask you to ignite a bit of controversy. Contact a School Committee member and speak out against this resolution to provide support. We must protect the things that bring us together.
• • •
Nick D'Amore of Groveland is a senior at Pentucket Regional High School.
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