Letter To The Editor – Don’t Cut The Summer Program

Editor,
I am concerned with the recent letter to the editor about the Grafton Town summer program. I wasn’t aware that there was a threat for the program to end, or be cut more, until I read the letter in the Eastwick Press.
The program keeps getting cut each year.
The program is wonderful for the children of this town, and the teens. Not only do my two younger kids attend every day – my older son is able to be employed for five weeks. There are not many places for a teen to work here. This gives them a great opportunity for employment, and a good experience.
On another note, how many families know about the program? Not many. Most say they never knew there was one – and then ask, “how much does it cost?” You can’t look at the numbers who attend because most don’t know about it.
The program provides something for the kids to do over the summer months. There are not many parents who can stay home with their kids all summer long – and if they do, you hear the all too familiar sound of “I’m bored,” which seems to start the first day of summer vacation!
The kids get to socialize with other kids in their community and participate in fun activities – fitness and reading to mention some things.
The kids look forward to each day – there is always something different and fun – Like Crazy Hair Day or PJ Day, a talent show day, an ice cream party day, pizza party with their music teacher coming in, the Library, Dyken Pond, Grafton Lakes State Park and Rensselaer County coming in and providing specials for them.
The leaders of the program have also worked to get free lunch and snack provided for everyone who attends.
Instead of taking away more, I believe that there should be more added.
Bring back the field trips, bring back swimming lessons. With all the bodies of water in the town I am shocked that there isn’t a swim program anymore. I have had conversations with other surrounding town leaders and their swim program is very beneficial to the kids – and wouldn’t cost that much.
Question: What do we provide for the children of this town as taxpayers? How much do we really spend?
As mentioned by the earlier letter to the editor – PLEASE do not take away the summer program – and PLEASE consider adding to it – giving back what has been taken away.
I would hope that the town of Grafton not only looks at this program to protect it, but also to spread the word. Is there a town newsletter anymore?
Thank you!
Amy Reger
Grafton