Community rallies for school bond proposal amid health concerns

During a recent government meeting, community members voiced their strong support for a bond proposal, specifically advocating for \"Option 5,\" which aims to maintain the presence of Estes Hills Elementary School. Mike Marshall, president of the Coker Hills Neighborhood Association, emphasized that any proposal leading to the closure of Estes would face significant opposition from local residents. He highlighted the community's desire for walkable schools, aligning with the town's complete streets policy.

Colleen Gore, a parent of students at nearby schools, echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of Estes as a vital community hub that serves families across generations. She noted its central location, which would benefit new residents in the area as more apartments are developed.

James Knowles, a child psychiatrist and parent, expressed gratitude for the community's support and urged decision-makers to consider the positive impact of Option 5 on local families. Tana Byram, a parent of students at FPG, called for prioritizing the dual language program in any future planning, emphasizing the need to maintain support for Spanish-speaking families during transitions.

While many attendees supported the bond proposal, Mark Russo raised concerns regarding the health implications of construction and renovations. He insisted on a detailed plan to protect students and staff from potential hazards associated with building work, such as dust and exposure to harmful materials.

The meeting underscored a collective commitment to preserving educational facilities while ensuring the health and safety of students during any proposed changes. Community members are hopeful that their voices will influence the final decisions regarding the bond proposal.