To the Editor:

I would like to respond to the Sound Off statement regarding “It’s Cuomo’s Fault” (April 27-May 3).

I would like to start off with what our New York State Gov. stated in the New York Times on February 6, 2011. Mr. Cuomo said. “I understand that they (superintendents) sometimes have to manage budgets, and sometimes the budgets are difficult. But why they get paid more than the governor of the state I really don’t understand.” Mr. Cuomo believed that layoffs “are not inevitable and that school districts have numerous ways they can bring down costs and be more efficient, including a reining in of salaries of superintendents and other administrative personnel.” Therefore, Mr. Cuomo, stated to look at superintendents and administration when school districts are looking at ways to cut costs. He did not say cut teachers and programming for our children, our future. Superintendents and Administrators are going to try to save their jobs and steer the attention from them to the Gov.

Gov. Cuomo is not the blame for cuts to teachers and programming for children. Gov Cuomo is not NNCS superintendent, nor, does he sit on the NNCS board. Therefore, Gov. Cuomo does not have say in how NNCS board and superintendent budget our communities tax dollars. The last thing on Gov. Cuomo’s mind is to cut programs our children need to be successful. Why do you think Gov. Cuomo is looking at capping New York State superintendent’s salaries? Gov. Cuomo gave us as New York taxpayers and community members an optional path to look down and to make our own decisions. It is up to each of us to be responsible community members and choose the path we believe will most benefit our children and communities. Which path one chooses to take is their right and opinion. I for one choose the path to have NNCS community members more knowledgeable and provide actual factual data.

I truly believe if you are going to write something you should own it. We are all entitled to our opinions and views; these are just a part of what this country is known for. We all need to be accountable for our actions and not be ashamed of what we believe in.

Pamela M. Levendusky, Norwood