Parents Speak Out Against Long Island School Closures

BALDWIN, NY (CBSNewYork) - School closures and layoffs are among the choices facing a couple of Long Island school districts as they consider cost cutting measures.

WCBS 880 Long Island Bureau Chief Mike Xirinachs On The Story

A task force met with parents at Baldwin Middle School last night and revealed its recommendation that the Shubert School and either the Steele or Milburn schools be closed.

Angry Baldwin parents have spoken about against the plan to close two elementary schools, but some longtime homeowners here say it may be the best way.

"No matter what you do in this world, whether you're the church, whether you're the government, whether you're Dunkin' Donuts, financial considerations are very important and you have to always do something that is financially reasonable," a man named Don Paul told WCBS 880 Long Island Bureau Chief Mike Xirinachs on Thursday. "I feel not just Baldwin, but most towns have to economize in reference to educational costs... even if it means shutting down schools."

Paul believes school closures should only be a last resort.

In Long Island's Middle Country school district, officials are considering dozens of layoffs and eliminating sports and other programs to cut $10.3 million.

Decisions in both districts are to be made by early next month.

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