Lewis Andrews' commentary on public school spending perpetuates the myth that school budgets are out of control and demonizes the people who have dedicated their careers to teaching and working with children. ("Control public school spending," June 14)

Public school spending makes up the majority of municipal budgets, and as such, should not be immune from examination. But the claims of his source, Armand Fusco, are either based on an out-dated, out-of-state study or are not cited.

His other suggestions, such as relying on volunteers for critical evaluation and consulting services, also ring hollow. Anyone who has worked with volunteers knows it is difficult to expect a significant time commitment from someone who is not compensated.

Further, the suggestion to rely on retirees who can be paid less because they already receive a pension has been lambasted in the press at the state level. Conservative advocates call it "double-dipping" and have personalized their attack on these public servants.

Mr. Andrews and Mr. Fusco are playing to an anti-public-service sentiment they believe is the norm. But talk to parents of children who our members in CSEA SEIU Local 2001 serve every day and you'll hear a different story.

Jaime Berger
Groton

Editor's note: The writer is co-president of the Groton Paraprofessionals Chapter of CSEA/SEIU, Local 2001 (Connecticut State Employees Association - Service Employees International Union), the labor union representing Connecticut state employees.