Suncoast Polytechnical High School (Polytech) isn't just a building; it's a home to students like me and countless others who have found their passion, purpose, and community here. This school was created to foster the growth and development of like-minded individuals who thrive in an environment tailored to their educational needs. It’s not just about the classrooms or halls; it’s the heart and soul of our student body. It simply cannot be relocated or morphed with another institution without losing its essence—its community.

The Sarasota County Schools Board has proposed a plan to merge our beloved Polytech with Brookeside Middle School. This decision feels like a betrayal to all who have poured effort, care, and love into making Polytech what it is today. The superintendent, in a recent address, dismissed crucial questions without showing any remorse, an indication that our voices and concerns are not being taken seriously.

Polytech is not broken, so why fix it by initiating such a drastic change? The school board argues it’s just a location move, but it’s so much more than that. Anyone who has walked through the halls of Polytech knows it's impossible to copy and paste a school like and this. 

We urge the Sarasota County Schools Board to reconsider their plans. Instead of tearing down what we've built together, let's celebrate and strengthen Polytech where it stands today. Merging with another school risks losing the unique identity and supportive environment that has nurtured countless students.

We call upon parents, students, alumni, and community members to stand against this merger. Your voice matters, and together, we can ensure that Polytech remains the home we cherish. Please join us in urging the school board to Leave Polytech Alone. Stand with us and sign this petition to protect our school and our community.

I personally chose polytech over ever other school offered and I do not know where I would be if I didn’t come here. I have felt more at home than I ever have in a school. Save my school, save this school for current and future students that wish to have a home away from home. Many will say it is just a location move and that home is where the heart is. I could also say that the heart is what makes the location the home. People who have never set foot in my school are making decisions and pretending they know what is best for us. The only people who knows what’s best for students IS THE STUDENTS!