What Do You Think of The Advertisements on Commack Schools' Sign Holders?

New stone foundations have been donated to hold the welcome signs in front of each of the Commack School District's schools, and include a placard with the name of Gappsi Group, the company that donated them.

The granite and stone pillars, valued at $5,500 to $7,000, are causing some controversy, prompting one Commack resident to express her dismay in a letter to Newsday.

"A school district's job is to educate children. In no way does a business partnership of this sort advance that goal," wrote Naomi Berman in her letter, "Troubling Sign of School Budget Times."

Commack Surperintendent thanked the Smithtown-based company in a statement, noting the donation is appreciated, especially when the economy has stretched the distrct's budget.

We are very appreciative for the donations made by the Gappsi Group,” said James. “These generous donations are very appreciated particularly during these difficult fiscal times when there are no funds for “extras” in the school budgets.”

The Board of Education also weighed in on the signs, as well as the advertisements.

"While we carefully consider all proposals to avoid advertisements directly targeting students, we are amazed and gratified by the generosity of our community on so many levels from personal to corporate," said Board President MaryJo Masciello in a statement.

The Gappsi Group is also donating materials and labor to build a for the district.

What do you think of the signs? Are they an unecessary advertisement, or simply a result of tough economic times? Tell us in the comments.