To the Editor,

On June 17, 2014, a majority of voters cast their NO vote to the override question. I wonder if they understand the consequences of their vote.

Last night, I was privileged to watch the promotion ceremony for 175 eighth-graders from Wareham Middle School. Out of the 175 students, 44 young women and men were academic achievers. In order to receive the academic achiever certificate, they had to maintain above a 90 average for sixth through eighth grade. Among the academic achievers, 16 received gold certificates. That means they maintained above a 94 average for sixth through eighth grade.

To put it lightly, this was no small task. Given the reductions in school staff, the cuts in supplies and the limited technology, they achieved something special! Not all come from homes where education is a priority and they have access to a world of information via the internet, which makes this an even more remarkable achievement.

In 10 years, how many will find their way back to Wareham? Given the lack of support we as voters have shown this group of students, why would they come back here? When they look for a place to settle down, work, raise a family, and become part of the community, why on earth would they choose Wareham? What message are we sending them? How much more difficult have we made it for the seventh graders who will now have fewer teachers and less funding for supplies?

The override was never just about one department of the town. It wasn’t just for the schools, the library, the COA, or public safety. It was built to address the fiscal health of the entire town. It was a comprehensive five year plan that not only addressed the present but positioned the town for the future.

The leadership group (Finance Committee, Selectmen, and School Committee) will begin meeting in July to address the deficit for F/Y 2016. The cuts made for F/Y 2015 are just the beginning. Each year, this group will cut deeper until we can no longer cut expenses, people, and services. In five years, will any of us be able to recognize this town?

For the 175 young women and men who finished eighth grade, I applaud your success and your ability to overcome the obstacles that we as voters have placed in your path. I hope we have learned more from your accomplishments than you have learned from our failures.

Larry McDonald