Subject: Request for Rescheduling of Erieview Elementary Walkthrough

Dear Board Members,

We, the undersigned parents and guardians of students at Erieview Elementary, respectfully request that the district consider postponing the planned public walkthrough of Erieview Elementary, currently scheduled for May 26, until after the conclusion of the 2024-2025 school year.

While we understand and appreciate the district's intention to honor the legacy of Erieview and offer the community an opportunity to visit the building, we believe it would be more appropriate to hold this event after the school year has concluded. Our concerns are outlined below:

Student Safety and Security: Allowing the general public into an active school building poses significant safety and security risks. In addition to the general concerns about maintaining a secure learning environment, parents and teachers are particularly worried about sensitive student information, such as names, bus numbers, and other personal details, being exposed to strangers. Furthermore, there is the potential for personal belongings of staff, including teaching materials and classroom property, to be inadvertently removed or disrupted during the walkthrough. It is imperative that we prioritize both student privacy and the security of the school environment.

Minimized Disruption to Learning: The event is scheduled during a critical time of year when students are engaged in important end-of-year activities, assessments, and final lessons. The logistics of accommodating public access to classrooms and securing materials for the walkthrough could disrupt both learning and daily operations.

Emotional Well-being: The closure of Erieview is an emotional transition for both students and staff. Holding a public event while school is still in session may increase anxiety and distract students from their focus on completing the academic year with closure and reflection.
Respectful Community Farewell: Hosting the event after the school year ends would allow for a more relaxed, respectful, and organized experience. This would provide the community an opportunity to honor the school without causing unnecessary disruptions to the students’ educational experience.

In light of these considerations, we respectfully request that the walkthrough event be rescheduled to take place after the last day of school. We believe this change would better serve the interests of our children, ensuring a smooth conclusion to their school year while maintaining the values of safety, focus, and emotional care that have always been central to Erieview.

Thank you for your understanding and consideration. We look forward to a positive resolution that prioritizes the well-being of our students.

Sincerely,
Concerned residents of Avon Lake/Erieview Elementary.