To the Editor:
I’m writing in strong support of the proposed 2025–26 Easton Board of Education and town budget. My family moved to Easton after a two-year search across Fairfield County because of the schools. We were drawn by the strength of the teaching, the sense of community, and the leadership of educators like Dr. Jason McKinnon and Mrs. Kimberly Fox Santora. Today, as the parent of a third grader, I continue to be grateful for the education my child receives.
This budget reflects the kind of responsible investment that families like mine hope for: it prioritizes real student needs while avoiding waste or excess. The proposed 6.72% increase in the education budget is driven largely by growing special education needs — needs that are rising across Connecticut and the nation. Easton is responding thoughtfully and legally to ensure all students get the support they’re entitled to.
But this budget does much more than respond to challenges — it also strengthens elementary education in ways that are meaningful to our family and many others. For example: It continues support for CKLA, a high-quality literacy program that builds reading comprehension and critical thinking skills — skills that are essential by third grade.
It invests in K–5 curriculum development in subjects like math, physical education, social studies, and health, ensuring our children are receiving a well-rounded, up-to-date education.
It includes funding for new digital learning tools and instructional supplies that directly benefit students at Samuel Staples Elementary School. And it helps maintain smaller class sizes by supporting instructional staff and paraeducators who work closely with children who need extra help.
I also appreciate that this budget is not bloated — it’s balanced. The Staples Elementary budget actually decreases slightly, due to a reduced staffing need and fewer books. The town-side budget is also nearly 3% lower than last year’s.
These cost-saving measures allow for smart reallocation of resources where they’re truly needed — without increasing the burden on taxpayers more than necessary. When McKinnon and Fox Santora say there is a need, I believe them. Their leadership has consistently shown that they’re thoughtful, responsible, and student-centered.
I thank the Board of Education, the Board of Finance, and First Selectman Dave Bindelglass for guiding Easton through this process with transparency and care. My family supports this budget — and we hope the rest of the community will, too.
Courtney LeBorious
Easton
