Seattle School Board Superintendent

Dr. Maria Goodloe-Johnson,

I wanted to personally send you a letter addressing aspects of your school closures which I respectfully disagree with. I understand the budget concerns and issues with funding and money, however I cannot fathom that it is in the city's interest to consolidate and close schools. The school board's function and ultimate responsibility is to provide for the appropriate education to students regardless of their socio-economic background, race, religion, or performance level.

As a public school student myself, and someone who volunteers as a tutor within the school setting, I recognize the difficulty in addressing each individuals' needs. However, for the city to neglect or disregard students in any circumstance is irresponsible and unacceptable. The school closures and consolidations are proof to some that Seattle is putting education on a back burner. In times like these, schools and young students need to be a priority.

Families, especially in minority and underprivileged communities, feel as though they have been abandoned by the one thing promised to them. Education is their ticket to a better life, a stable job, and the American dream. At the same time, families with resources are not willing to jeopardize their children's potential to a failing school system. The loss of the public's confidence and trust may be the worse loss of them all.

The damage has been done and with your proposal's passing not much more has to be said. I would just advise that the fallout is not far away and we are all hoping to salvage what is left.