To the Editor:

 

Over the past few years, we have seen the positive changes in Easthampton. The dedication of the public safety complex, the construction of the bike trail, the renewal on Cottage Street and the development of Eastworks are a few of the exciting developments that have occurred. It is very clear to anyone who has lived in this area for any period of time that there is an energy and “can-do” spirit in Easthampton that has manifested itself in the arts community, businesses and organizations within the city.

 

However, for all these great efforts and accomplishments, there is one glaring weakness in an otherwise very progressive picture. The physical condition and age of the buildings used by the Easthampton’s school system is a noticeable and detrimental shortcoming. Ask any prospective family considering Easthampton as a possible location to live, and more often than not, they will cite the schools (and particularly the age of the facilities) as an unsettling concern.

 

Looking around to all the surrounding municipalities that can offer the “school choice option” for Easthampton residents, each and every one of these communities has completed some new school system construction very recently.  It is remarkable that Easthampton still has two grade schools buildings that are still in use and are in excess of 90 years old.  The high school is in need of significant retrofitting to be brought up to date with the current needs of technology in the classroom, a very basic tenet to 21^st century high school education.

 

By voting YES to the Debt Exclusion question on November 8^th, the residents of Easthampton would allow for funding $1.2 million to pay for design plans for a new K-4 grade school and for renovations to the high school.  These plans are required by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts in order to apply for state funding to support construction costs for new school buildings or renovations.  The commonwealth will provide funding to communities that have proven to be committed to advancing school facilities. By submitting these plans, Easthampton can “get in the game” and prove it is serious about providing the best learning environment for its children. The teachers within the system do great work, and it is time to school system’s facilities match their great work.

 

The children of this community and the reputation of Easthampton deserve the best. Make the improvements of the school systems facilities a priority in Easthampton. Please vote YES on the Debt Exclusion question on November 8^th. 

 

Sincerely,

 

Chuck & Martha McCullagh

42 Ashley Circle

Easthampton, MA 01027

 

For more information, go the www.committeeforbetterschools.org

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There is never a “good time” to spend money, but there is a “right time.” 

And the right time is now for Easthampton Schools.

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