As a youth director in Cincinnati's West End, I have a close relationship with over 50 students who attend Hays Porter, our community's only public elementary school. This institution has made significant progress and is the beacon of our community, achieving a high rating of 4 out of 5 stars from the state. Achievement of this caliber should be celebrated and strengthened, not undermined.

Hays Porter is also the only school in the West End that has achieved this distinction and is on the precipice of earning a coveted 5-star rating — a demonstration of its potential and progress. However, the proposed closure looms darkly, threatening to affect more than 300 young lives in our community.

Given how critical this education institution is for our youth and the strides it has made in terms of educational excellence, we are calling on Cincinnati Public Schools to reconsider this decision. It is not just about saving a school - this is about safeguarding the future of our community and providing our children with the quality education and opportunities they deserve.

Act now and protect the students of Hays Porter. Sign this petition today.