Easthampton has a unique opportunity to become a city where the education of our children is paramount. What greater community value can there be?
The proposed new pre-kindergarten through Grade 8 building will solve many of the problems of our seriously deficient structures immediately. Even more importantly, state-of-the art spaces will encourage and stimulate our teachers to work in fresh, innovative ways. Our students will benefit greatly.
The estimated tax impact on the average homeowner is $57 to $73 a month. Mayor Nicole LaChapelle should lead the way in finding ways to lessen that impact on those for whom the tax is truly burdensome. Unfortunately, we have years of neglect to rectify, and deferring our civic responsibility even more will result only in even higher future costs.
Easthampton’s school plan deserves widespread support. We can become a community recognized for our commitment to our children. What a distinction that would be.
James T. Dowell
Easthampton