[Schoolconsolidation] ARUNDEL'S FUTURE

[Robert and Sandra Walker]

 I am writing as a concerned Arundel resident of 59 years who has attended the Arundel schools through the 8th grade,as a past Arundel school board member for 9 years and as a member of the building committee that was responsible for the addition that houses the gym, library, offices and what used to be the middle school wing. I am also a parent of children who had the wonderful opportunity to go thru the M.L.D School and I am anxiously waiting for my grandson to begin his education in the Mildred L. Day School.           I feel (as many others do) that the imposed school consolidation is confusing and leaving many important questions unanswered, but Arundel needs to proceed and try to find the best course for its future.
         I have had the opportunity to attend some informational meetings and a few comments have alarmed me.
         At the informational RSU 56 meeting on 10/1/07, Saco's superintendent of schools admitted to space and budget problems when asked about their all day kindergarten program. He conceded that one of Saco's elementary schools(Young) had been built as a module school with a life span of only 5-10 years, which would need to be addressed soon. He also mentioned that Saco and Dayton had already begun talks about a new school together but had put that on hold until the RSU has been settled.
        THESE ARE RED FLAGS.  Will Arundel's educational opportunities benefit by going into a district that has admitted to very difficult issues that need to be addressed soon- even without the challenges of combining 4 school districts?
          REMEMBER THAT RSU 56  DOES NOT INCLUDE THORNTON MIDDLE SCHOOL OR THORNTON ACADEMY.They are private schools.
          It's important for the middle school and high school parents to know that the consolidation WILL NOT affect high school choice or the existing 10- year contract with Thornton Middle School.
          The possibility of closing Mildred L. Day is a great concern for us all but KNOW THAT NEITHER RSU can guarantee it will never happen. If closing became a reality in 5 years where would be the best school to bus our very young children to?
            I want to finish with a positive observation as an educator for 37 years, with 23 years in the Kennebunk school system.  I have had the pleasure of having many Arundel students in my classes and an opportunity to see several Arundel students became leaders and a very active part of the high school.
              I have observed and participated in Kennebunk's quest to give quality and compassionate education to all of its students regardless of ability. I feel strongly their philosophy and emphasis on education would help us on our continued journey to seek and offer the best possible education to our young people.  
             Please remember this consolidation could last for more than just our lifetime and we shouldn't let the emotions of the moment be the determing factor of our choice.
                                                            Respectfully:
                                                            Robert A Walker
  PS This was not written to offend others of different views,but as an opportunity to share my concerns for our young people

       
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