Northampton is a city of leaders. Aside from being the hometown of one U.S. president (so far), it has repeatedly stood head and shoulders above other small cities. Its dedication to social justice, climate action, and old-fashioned good governance are bar none. Northampton Public Schools are a prime example. Anyone who has been to an NHS play, concert, or art exhibition has no doubt been blown away by the many talents of our students and the teachers who stand behind them. However, our schools are at a crossroads, as indicated by dire recent reporting by the Gazette.

Proposed budget cuts pose an existential risk to special education services, arts programming, and teacher morale. We need leaders. The women of Smith College are certainly well-versed in the art of leadership. Smith has always blazed trails in terms of academic research and financial aid. Similarly, Smith has demonstrated that it’s willing to support initiatives like the Department of Community Care. When it comes to funding city services like public education, Smith College denies its rightful place as the leader of the pack. In Boston, the majority of private colleges have already agreed to help fund city services in a way that is predictable and fair. They clearly see what we all see: wealthy colleges have a financial obligation to their communities.

To whom much is given, much shall be required. Smith has the resources and ability to provide decisive leadership and financial support to guarantee our future leaders the education they deserve.

Tom Bodo

Williamsburg