To the Editor:

On behalf of Potsdam Central PTSA, I would like to direct all readers to our informational page published in this week's in this paper and online at http://northcountrynow.com/potsdam-ptsa.

The financial situation in our local schools has been deteriorating in recent years and has hit critical levels. Our students need a strong foundation to succeed in life and become contributing members to society.

Our schools do not have the same educational resources or opportunities as wealthier downstate districts, which leaves our students at a distinct disadvantage. This is in large part due to inequitable funding practices utilized by the state of New York.

While Canton and Potsdam Central Schools are experiencing the worst cuts per student from the state, many of our local schools are facing huge class sizes and loss of programs. This affects our whole community.

If our schools are failing, we all suffer. Please read our page and find out what you can do to help.

Rachel Heath Wallace

PTSA VP for Lawrence Avenue Elementary