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Democratic Control of School Funding
Created by Abby H.
Let’s keep the momentum going to make Somerville a more democratic and accountable city – urge the Mayor to share school funding decision-making with the City Council.
Tonight, the City Council UNANIMOUSLY adopted Chapter 329 — a crucial policy that would give them the authority to approve a higher school budget than what the Mayor has proposed. This power is limited and applies only in exceptional circumstances – when two-thirds of the Council agrees and there is clear and broad consensus (from the School Committee and the District) that our schools are being shortchanged.
Before the Council even voted tonight, the Mayor made clear she does not support Chapter 329. The City Council unanimously adopted it anyway because it is important to our democratic process and the health of our schools. It now awaits the Mayor’s signature.
This year’s school funding deliberations have revealed how important it is for power to NOT be concentrated in the hands of one person. The Mayor has repeatedly resisted the groundswell of overwhelming, united appeals – from educators, parents, community members, and the School Committee – that more school funding is crucial. Last night, in the face of the Mayor’s resistance, the School Committee approved a budget that, while more than originally set forth, does NOT meet the needs our educators have clearly outlined. The Mayor also made clear that any increase is a one-time “gift,” with no provision for it to be included in future budgets.
We cannot allow one individual to dictate the future of our schools, and override overwhelming community and government consensus, based on political convenience or personal preference. SPS and the School Committee must be set up for success in future to write a budget that aligns with actual student need, not mayoral preference. It’s time to stand up for our students, teachers, and families. Urge the Mayor to sign off on the adoption of Chapter 329 so our elected officials can act when our schools are urgently underfunded.
The last thing we need in 2025 is further concentration of power in the hands of one executive. Adoption of Chapter 329 will democratize our school budgeting process and safeguard our schools.
-Anna and Abby
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Somerville - Mayor
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Suggested phone script
Hello, my name is [NAME] and I’m calling to ask the mayor to support Chapter 329, the Special Act.
The City Council—responding to an outpouring of concern from hundreds of constituents—voted unanimously in support of it. That kind of unity, both from the Council and the community, should not be taken lightly.
Now is the time for bold leadership and collaborative governance.
The Special Act is NOT a sweeping power shift; it is a limited, tailored measure that will only become available (as an option, not a requirement) in extreme circumstances. The Special Act will make our system stronger and more fair, not less, and it makes sense to make this available for something as important as education.
Stand for democracy and sign the Act.
Thank you!
The City Council—responding to an outpouring of concern from hundreds of constituents—voted unanimously in support of it. That kind of unity, both from the Council and the community, should not be taken lightly.
Now is the time for bold leadership and collaborative governance.
The Special Act is NOT a sweeping power shift; it is a limited, tailored measure that will only become available (as an option, not a requirement) in extreme circumstances. The Special Act will make our system stronger and more fair, not less, and it makes sense to make this available for something as important as education.
Stand for democracy and sign the Act.
Thank you!
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Somerville - Mayor
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