During the meeting, Superintendent Nick Markarian highlighted that the district needs to reduce personnel expenditures by approximately $2.5 million. He emphasized that these reductions are driven by economic factors, not individual performance, and are guided by seniority. The proposed cuts have sparked widespread concern, particularly over the potential elimination of key positions in the music and arts programs.

A significant portion of the public comments focused on the potential impact of cutting the third-grade string program. Numerous speakers, including students and parents, underscored the foundational role these programs play in fostering creativity and community among students. They argued that music education offers mental, physical, and emotional benefits, reducing anxiety and depression while enhancing memory and creativity. One speaker remarked that music has provided “joy and comfort and a sense of balance during times of stress and anxiety.”

Parents and students expressed concerns about the long-term implications of these cuts, noting that eliminating foundational programs like third-grade strings could have a “trickle effect” on participation in music throughout middle and high school. Junior Benjamin Chuckman, a principal double bass player in the Ridgefield orchestra, questioned the effectiveness of these cuts in resolving budget issues, highlighting the ongoing need for materials for higher grade levels.

Community members also raised concerns about the proposed cuts to other arts programs. Barbara Gary criticized the board for not restructuring administrative roles to address the budget shortfall, questioning the logic behind retaining a full-time drama teacher while eliminating courses like photography and creative writing. Maline Bellard, a Ridge High School graduate, shared her personal experience with the arts department, emphasizing its profound impact on her life and arguing that arts education is essential rather than extracurricular.

Students echoed these sentiments, with eighth grader Yaf Sheth articulating the importance of classes and extracurricular activities in helping students discover their passions. Sheth warned that potential cuts would limit opportunities for future students to explore their interests.

As the meeting progressed, the board acknowledged the concerns raised by residents and students. They emphasized that the budget must address a $2.5 million deficit, which requires difficult decisions that inevitably affect staffing. While some positions, including one music staff member, were included in the proposed reduction in force, the board framed these cuts as a cost-saving measure.

Superintendent Markarian reiterated that decisions regarding reductions were based strictly on economic factors and not on individual performance. He explained that the process of determining which staff would be let go is guided by seniority, meaning those with fewer years of service would be affected first.

The board also discussed the financial realities facing the district, particularly the unexpected increases in health benefit costs, which have spiked by over 20% in the current budget cycle. These unforeseen expenses, along with inflationary pressures, have placed additional strain on the district’s budget, which is limited to a 2% increase.

Board members noted that the district’s expenditures are heavily tied to personnel costs, with 75% of the budget dedicated to salaries and benefits. They acknowledged the limitations imposed by these fixed costs and emphasized the need to make strategic cuts.

In addition to the financial discussions, the meeting also featured a student-led report highlighting achievements at Ridge High School, including successes in sports and ongoing community service initiatives. The student representative noted the strong performance of the boys’ baseball team, ranked 14th in the state, and shared details about various fundraising efforts and events promoting student engagement.

The board expressed appreciation for the public’s input, stressing that all voices were being heard. They encouraged continued community engagement and input on cost-cutting ideas, acknowledging the ongoing nature of the budget challenges and emphasizing the importance of collective efforts to address them.