06/15/2026
Here's another letter we received today:
Dear Goshen Community Members,
My name is Patty Hartley. I have lived in Goshen since 2007. Both of my children are graduates of the Goshen Central School District. I served as Vice President of the GIS PTO (2014-2017) and President of the CJH PTO (2018-20). I also worked for the district as an aide from 2013 until 2021, when I left to take a full time teaching position in another district. I have read every line of the budget and while I do not think that it is perfect, I will be supporting it.
I have seen posts and comments about the rising costs and comparing Goshen to other districts. I would like to address some of these concerns. It is true: our budget has risen since 2018, but it is also true that we have low teacher turnover. When teachers stay longer, their salaries increase. There are many teachers who have 20+ years of experience in our district. There are not many professions that require a person to have a Masters degree or more, work more than 20 years, and make less than $100,000.
I believe that comparing Goshen to other districts based solely on expenses and taxes creates an incomplete and potentially misleading picture. School taxes typically make up the largest portion of property tax bills—often between 60% and 70%. While no one welcomes higher taxes, and any increase affects all of us, adequate school funding is essential. When schools lack the resources they need, it is ultimately our students and community's future that suffer.
I remember when the budget failed in 2008. Teachers were let go and put on a call back list. The second vote passed but cuts were made. I know many believe that scare tactics are being implemented and that basic services will stay in place. You might be right. Students with IEPs, 504 plans, and accommodations will receive their services. It is the law. However, finding 1:1 aides might be more difficult than ever. Goshen laid off 20+ aides in 2025 (I strongly disagree with this) and it has been a struggle to rehire when needed. People do not want to take a position they think will have an end date. I have seen posts on the Mom page that have reflected the struggle to hire aides. It could get worse.
What will be affected if the budget fails again and we go into contingency? Non-mandated programming can be cut. The 5:00 bus has been cut when finances are tight. I saw this happen in the spring of 2021 and complained loudly. My kids never needed to use this bus because I work locally, but I know that working parents depend on this bus. Middle and high school students who stay after school for sports, clubs, and other activities will no longer be able to participate if the 5:00 bus is cut.
Modified sports, after school clubs in the middle and high schools, and the school musicals might also be affected if we go into contingency.
Both of my children participated in afterschool programs. My oldest played modified football, track and field, and worked on stage crew in the CJH musical. My youngest participated in the CJH musical for three years and in the GHS musical for four years. Both of my children benefitted from these programs by making new friends, increasing their communication skills, and learning what teamwork is all about.
My children flourished in Goshen. I believe the dedicated teachers, personalized service, and enrichment programs contributed to their success. This is why I support the budget and will vote YES.
Respectfully,
Patty Hartley
