Custodians have shown they care for Marlboro school children

As a former Marlboro coun-cilwoman, consumer affairs director, and most important a grandmother of three attending grammar school, I feel I must voice my concern. It has been said that due to budget cuts, we are going to privatize the custodial services in our school district (outsourcing) and bring in service from another area.

According to Webster's dictionary, a custodian is "one who has custody or care of something."

The present custodians have been servicing our schools, our children and grandchildren for many years. All our children know them by name and face and have established a trusting relationship with them.

When my grandson first entered school and the fire alarm went off and there was some confusion, it was Mr. Todd who stayed with him and escorted him back to his classmates.

When there is band practice, who returns the stands to the original place? Who cares for the children and reassures them when "accidents" sometimes happen en route to the restroom?

I would not want a "janitorial" agency from outside the area whose employees are not long term, who do not have ties or roots with our community to be responsible for caring for our children.

If our custodians have over 15 years of a trusting relationship with our schools, are we now going to rob them of their "pensions?" Is that the reward for years of care?

Many of us came out to support a budget. Maybe we have to look at the top of our administration ladder and sharpen the pencil. Do not cut from the bottom.

My years in politics have taught me to check the facts from all sides. Question everything. Although I feel the plan of action has already been executed, I ask you, do what's right, what's fair and most important safe for our children.

Sally Mollica

Marlboro