I write in support of the proposed pre-kindergarten through Grade 8 school in Easthampton.
Our elementary schools do not meet modern safety and security standards (which makes sense since they were all built over 100 years ago). White Brook Middle School is in no better shape, with all major building systems at the breaking point.
The state is offering to pay for half of a brand-new safe and modern facility, and Easthampton cannot afford to turn down these funds. Repairing the old schools on our own will cost more than building a new school, and the state would not be paying for any of these repairs. In the long run, this would cost the town twice as much.
The students and teachers of Easthampton deserve a pleasant, functional workplace, with proper safety and security systems, adequate educational environments, and green space for learning and playing. My children are grown, so they won’t be attending this new school, but I realize that I have an obligation to the next generation — we all do.
I heard a phrase the other day that really informs my decision: “There is no such thing as other people’s children.” A new school will provide education to thousands of Easthampton children over many decades. These children are our responsibility. We need to provide them with safe and functional schools.
We can’t stand by and let our schools (and therefore our city) crumble into irretrievable disrepair. It would not be wise and it would not be right. Please join me in voting “yes” on May 22.
Patti Benson
Easthampton
The writer is co-chair of the Committee for Building Easthampton’s Future.