As parents and community members in the Talawanda School District, we oppose a proposal coming before the Board of Education. The proposal would convert the current elementary schools – Kramer, Marshall, and Bogan – to “grade-band buildings.” Rather than each school providing pre-K through fifth grade for nearby children, Bogan would be converted to K-1, Marshall to grades 2-3, and Kramer to Preschool and grades 4-5. 

This change would disrupt the lives of students, parents, and teachers across the district. Children would lose the chance to settle into a school community during crucial years in their development; many children would be separated from their siblings, and would face longer car or bus rides. Many parents, especially those with multiple children, would be burdened with tricky schedules and tough choices. And many teachers would be left with longer commutes, time-intensive relocation and adjustment, and the loss of familiar spaces and colleagues.

We need to act to let the Board know that there is widespread opposition in the district. There are other ways for the Talawanda School District to meet its budgetary needs and keep art, music, and sports for children and youth in the district. We ask the Board to reject this proposal and we ask the administration to revisit the budget in order to find other ways to cover shortfalls.