To whom it may concern,
Today I would like to talk about Bjorkdale School’s impending closure, reduction, or continuance.
I could reiterate all the facts, like how the school building is in good shape, that it’s only a few short kilometres away from being a school of necessity, and how much this community needs our school.
But let’s get real for a minute and talk about what this is really about. Is it about other towns possibly getting a new school built in their community? Is it about maintenance on a building? Is it about the provincial budget?
When you think of what’s most important to you with your child’s education, do you ask yourself: “What is best for my child?” That’s the key, isn’t it! What is best for our children?
At Bjorkdale School, they have a quality education. I know this because both of my children graduated here and have gone on to do great things, as well as many other former students. They have opportunities here that are different from other schools but equally important. Here at Bjorkdale School they learn everything required by the education system and much more. They have learned to be a family, where it’s not uncommon to walk into the curling rink and see graduated students playing card games with seven year olds.
There is a very important fact however that needs to be examined closely. If, in fact, our school closes, our children would have to ride the bus for up to three hours cumulatively each day. Would you do that for your job? Is that what is best for our children? Would this not affect their day and quality of life, let alone their education? If it was your child, would you find this acceptable for them?
So today, I ask everyone to ask themselves: Am I doing what’s best for our children? For it is them who will have to live with the decision that is made.
Sheila Lupien,
Bjorkdale
