Petition Created to Avoid Closing Middle Schools

Another school closure petition has been created on Change.org, only this one in support of saving both middle schools.

The contents of the letter, authored by Concerned Parents of West Islip, explain why it shouldn't be a viable option for the BOE to close any of the two middle schools.  The introduction states:

We believe that the decrease of student enrollment entering elementary school warrants the closings to take place at the elementary school level and not the middle school level; We simply can not afford to close either middle school as it will create many negative effects and increased risks for our children and community

Currently, the BOE is considering, two of which include the closure of a middle school. So far 84 people have signed the petition. 

The letter then goes on stating supporting reasons why it's not suitable to close a middle middle school. The first reason being, "Busing students over the rail road tracks during peak car and train commuter hours will dramatically increase safety risks and create further traffic congestion in an already busy location along Higbie and Udall Roads." 

Residents can voice their opinion on the four closure options Tuesday, Nov. 29 at 8 p.m. in the high school auditorium.  The BOE said they will make a decision in early 2012.