To the editor,

But really, this letter is to the residents of the Seaside School District.

I’m an old guy who taught school in the 1960s and 70s. We had band, orchestra, “after school” sports (with no fees), a librarian and library aide, a music teacher, an art teacher, we had field trips and PE at least three times a week — at each grade level and class sizes of 20 to 25 students. And that was in elementary school!

I am truly saddened by the stories I hear today of all the school budget troubles and the subsequent cuts to programs. It’s time — millennials and others — to step up and stop short-changing our children! You can start by voting “yes” in the upcoming election, which will at least sustain our current level of school funding. A “yes” vote will also encourage our teachers and staff. They will feel appreciated by our community and that goes a long way toward excellence in the classroom.

Marcus Simantel

Seaside