To the editor:
As the Regional School Unit 50 school configuration debate continues, it has become clearer than ever how negativity breeds negativity. I continue to reject the antagonistic nature of many throughout our communities because it is counterproductive. I am disappointed in those who continue to be unsupportive and unwilling to give anyone the benefit of the doubt before casting judgment upon their character. In my opinion, this has in part led us to where we are today.
Here is a message for those whose glass is always half empty: If they aren’t part of the solution, then they must be part of the problem. We must deal with reality as it is, not as we wish it to be. We have real challenges facing our local school district, and we need people who are willing and capable to confront them head-on.
The financial reality is simple, if we want to retain a local school in our community, then we first must be willing to pay for it. It’s time to stop finding fault as we need remedies. I do not want to lose any of our local schools. I understand the ramifications of not reaching a collaborative solution. I look forward to the day that our community advocates for passing budgets and positioning our children educationally so they are able to compete globally.
I am asking the school board to vote against closing Katahdin Middle High School. Please allow us the opportunity to work together constructively toward creating a sustainable plan for our future.
Richard Schmidt
Patten
