As concerned residents of Franklin, MA, we have witnessed the growing financial deficit of our school district over the last 15 years. Postponing the election until November will only perpetuate this problem. A special election in June 2024 would allow us to pass an operational override, preventing another year of cuts and mitigating damage going into the 2025/26 fiscal year. 

It's also important to acknowledge that the residents do not want to see the bare minimum given to our schools at the expense of our emergency service departments. They are essential for maintaining public safety, and cannot afford any reductions in their funding. In fact, we would like to see the third ambulance be staffed full time, and want "capital funds" going toward projects like the new police station and maintenance to extend the life of our roads, and not items that should be in operational budgets.

Our school district is an integral part of our community that drives our property values, shapes future generations, and promotes a culture of education here in Franklin, especially as the birthplace of Horace Mann. The prospect of further budget cuts threatens our school's reputation which has already shifted among educators as recruiting and retaining educators continues to be a significant challenge. 

According to Massachusetts Department of Elementary & Secondary Education, Franklin School District already operates on a bare minimum budget compared to other districts within the state, bottom 20% in fact. We cannot afford further financial strain without compromising essential services, risking compliance audits or lawsuits, or losing accreditations.

Let's demand a special election in June 2024, it's for the benefit of the whole town that we appropriately fund our public schools. Sign this petition today if you believe in safeguarding Franklin’s future.