Date: 11/1/2023
Community. “Sometimes you gotta’ create what you want to be a part of.” [Geri Weitzman]
On Nov. 7, the town of East Longmeadow has a critical vote about “ommunity.”
Since 2007, there have been several capital improvements to East Longmeadow High School including: electrical switchgear replacement and distribution panels, replaced membrane on a section of the roof, ongoing replacement and repair of skylights, replaced five boilers, new fire alarm system; and other items. It simply has not been enough. The roof continues to leak, parts cannot be found for the outdated systems, inconsistent heat, no sprinkler system, many systems are not up to current building codes, and many classroom sizes are too small as dictated by the Commonwealth. The cost to repair the existing building exceeds the cost to build new.
ELHS risks losing its accreditation through the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. ELHS last underwent an accreditation review in the fall of 2014 (every 10 years) and was placed on “Warning” status under the standard of Community Resources for Learning (building and facilities that are safe, secure and a healthy environment). Despite capital improvements, ELHS remains in “Warning” status.
Continuing to be on “Warning” status, or loss of accreditation, places our college bound graduating seniors (90% of class) at great risk during the college admissions process. Colleges may question the Town’s ability and interest towards its commitment to educational excellence. Our students may be passed over for acceptance by students hailing from schools without accreditation concerns.
Longmeadow, West Springfield and Wilbraham have new schools within the last several years. We are no longer viewed as a community of choice by many families. Our students are continuing to be at a competitive disadvantage.
Equally devastating are the existing families moving out of town or sending their children to private school if the vote does not pass. We run the risk of our census decreasing, active community members leaving and plummeting property values.
On Oct. 25, the MSBA made an unprecedented vote to increase the grant money awarded to East Longmeadow from $63 million to $82 million for the proposed new high school project. If the town votes “No” we walk away from $82 million in grant money. This is our one chance.
The new high school will be a space with endless potential for the whole community to use such as: public meeting spaces, concerts, walkable grounds, basketball & pickleball courts, softball fields, community theater, and a new pool (question #2 on the ballot).
I invite you to look towards all the possibilities in our future instead of the limits on our past.
A “Yes” vote ensures the vitality of our community. New community members moving into East Longmeadow means businesses flourish, property values increase, greater community resources, and the children will be armed to tackle their future with an educational foundation which properly prepares them to succeed.
Nov. 7. The time is now, for the future of tomorrow looks bright!
Vote yes ELHS.
One chance. One vote. One voice.
Kerry A. Skillin
East Longmeadow
