The students are too young to vote. The senior citizens who live in the Fireman Community make it a habit to vote.

The members of the student committee for the override explained that passage of tax increase isn’t only important to maintain educational programs, but will also benefit programs used by the town’s seniors.

Sophomore Melissa Itzkowitz said that by supporting the override “you are helping preserve all of Randolph.”

School officials have recommended eliminating all extra curricular programs and sports if the override fails.

The system’s financial problems have an impact in the classroom as well, she said. She said an advanced placement biology class she took had three different teachers in a year because teachers can make more money in other communities.

“This is our only hope for the entire town,” Itzkowitz said.

Jessi Fixsen, a junior who is vice president of the student council, talked about the possible loss of the high school’s accreditation because of budget cuts.

They pointed out that the police, fire and public works departments would all benefit from the override.

The Turner Free Library would be able to restore hours, win back its accreditation and residents will retain full use of library services in other towns, the students said.

Some of the residents even offered suggestions for the final days of the campaign.

Nettie Sooper, one of the Fireman Community residents, said she was impressed by the students’ presentations.

“I was very proud of them all,” said Sooper.

“I wish we had this earlier. We could accomplish so much more.”

The Fireman Community has 174 residents, and when it comes to elections “they get out,” Sooper said.

Ruth Arons, another Fireman Community resident, also supports the override.

“The future of America belongs to the students, and they have to be educated,” Arons said.

“You can’t get anywhere without an education.

Fred Hanson may be reached at fhanson@ledger.com.