Because of a decrease in requested budget funds, one elementary school in Shelton CT is no longer willing to make their facilities available after a certain hour, around 4 pm, to save on utilities and payroll. This means that the local Girl Scout troop can no longer meet there.
I love the Girl Scouts and all they stand for; I hate their cookies. But do I feel obligated to have town tax money go towards this private organization? No. I’m not from Shelton but these things tend to run the round and if little Elise thinks it’s unfair to her and her troop, why does she feel it’s fair for the town property owners to pay all costs incurred to enable her to meet there?
I think that use of the school facilities is a privilege and a good thing to offer to such groups. However, when cuts must be made, here’s one are where it unfortunately makes the most sense rather than slashing back on legitimate school programs, textbooks, computers, teachers, or security.
The Lost Children: A Charity Anthology