The Student Perspective

While school districts and school boards crunch numbers, cut or add programs and make decisions about education, it's the students who rarely have a say in the process. 

As part of our EduNation column, I spoke with two students, one from Sachem East and one from Sachem North, to get their take on the changing times, the fiscal crunches thanks to shoddy budgeting at the state level and the student perspective on involvement with important decisions.

"I think about the financial matters that plague the district, to an extent," said Sachem East senior Brendan Jones, a member of student government and athletics. "I think about the things that I am involved, like sports and activities of that nature because those finances directly affect me."

While Jones understands the magnitude of the finances, he admits only to a certain extent.

"I know that if the finances are low and the budget doesn't pass, that could mean a cut in supplies for sports team or in the classroom," he said.

Another student, who wished to remain anonymous, is concerned with the potential threat of losing clubs, activities and Advanced Placement/College Board testing if the school budget takes a hit next year.

She's a student at North, enrolled in all honors and AP courses.

"While I do realize that there is much consideration and work put in to the budget planning, it seems unfair that certain activities get more funding and support than others," she said. "It is extremely scary, but thankfully there have not been any major clubs or activities cut at my school yet."

She also was quick to point out the positive environment at North, one where she is caught up in learning and living her life, not stressing about the numbers, which is what the district administrators are there for.

"The administrators, faculty, and staff are all supportive and encouraging but I feel that it would be helpful to have greater student involvement in the budget planning and finances," she said. "Sachem is like a family and it is so great to be a part of such a wonderful district that offers its students innumerable opportunities and an invaluable education. The Sachem district not only creates great students, but great leaders and global citizens."

Jones said he wasn't aware students can attend school board meetings, but as the months pass and May rolls around, signifying budget crunch time, more students should head to the administrative annex at Samoset when the meetings are held. Jimmy Ye from East and Kelly Gochan from North are student representatives on the board. They speak up - usually towards the end - and listen intently as critical decisions about their schools are voted on and discussed.

Getting involved in the educational process – even as a casual listener – will help future generations assimilate with changing educational and financial hurdles.

Recently, the district embarked on lectures for administrators, which will trickle down to students, enabling everyone to focus on principle centered leadership.

"I believe we currently do a very nice job along these lines as evidenced by the success of our graduates, the humble generosity and community involvement of our students, and the many opportunities we provide for our students to meet and work with elected officials," said Sachem Superintendent James Nolan. "We should never become complacent.  If we do not continue to "sharpen the saw" and look for ways to improve, we will fall behind.  Sachem is always looking for ways to get kids involved in as many experiences and forums as possible."