Frequently Asked Questions

Does providing a good education really require fancy new school buildings? 

The buildings will be functional, but far from “fancy.” 

We have dedicated teachers, involved parents and skilled school administrators.  What we don’t have are adequate facilities that are necessary to provide a high quality education in the 21st century.

Is a single new elementary school the best answer?  Why can’t we renovate existing schools?

A single elementary school is the only solution that makes sense financially.  The existing schools are too old to be renovated, and finding sites for and building three new elementary schools would cost several times more than a single elementary school.

The state will not share the cost of renovating 100+ year old school buildings.

Won’t we still need Pepin for some students?

The new elementary school will house grades K-4.
 None of the old elementary schools will remain in use. 

The old school buildings will likely be sold, like Memorial Hall and the old School Department building, generating additional revenue for the city and increasing the property tax base.

       Don’t children perform better at small, “neighborhood” elementary schools?

For most Easthampton students, we don’t have true “neighborhood schools” now.  Most children attending our elementary schools do not live within walking distance of their school.

Further, the “Small Learning Communities” concept has little to do with building size.  It’s about creating small groups of teachers and students who remain together for multiple school years, allowing them to get to know each other.  This is the model that will be used at the new elementary school.

The schools were good enough for me, why aren’t they good enough for today’s students?

Like everything else, education has changed since we were in school.  Even 25 years ago, there were no personal computers and there was no Internet in schools.  In addition, schools today are required by federal and state laws to educate students with a wide range of special needs.  Our school buildings are not designed to accommodate them, or the staff required to teach them. 

Can’t we just buy existing plans for a new school instead of paying for a brand new set?

It’s not legal in the state of Massachusetts.  All building sites are different, and a unique set of plans must be created that are specific to the site.

Vote YES to pass the override on November 8th!

And…we could use your help.

To volunteer or donate to the Committee for Better Schools
Call us at 529-3500 to volunteer, make a donation, or tell us what you think!
Or email betterschools@gmail.com

 

There is never a “good time” to spend money, but there is a “right time.” 

And the right time is now for Easthampton Schools.


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