I understand and appreciate that our school board’s primary concern is the safety of our students. Every parent, teacher, and community member wants to ensure that children are protected. However, I believe permanently closing the road between the school and the gym is not the best solution.
Rather than eliminating an important roadway that serves our community, why not improve the safety measures already in place?
Many railroad crossings use gates that automatically lower to stop traffic while a train passes. A similar system could be installed at the school. When a class is ready to cross, a teacher or staff member could simply press a button to activate crossing gates and flashing lights, temporarily stopping traffic until all students have crossed safely. Once everyone is across, the gates would raise, and traffic could continue. This approach would significantly increase student safety while allowing the road to remain open for the many residents, parents, emergency vehicles, and others who rely on it.
Communities should not have to choose between safety and accessibility when thoughtful solutions can provide both. Closing the road may solve one concern, but it also creates inconvenience and potential challenges for those who depend on that route every day.
I encourage the school board and board of supervisors to explore alternatives before making a permanent decision. By working together, we can find a solution that protects our students while preserving the roadway that has served our community for many years.
Our children deserve the safest possible environment, and our community deserves solutions that balance safety with common sense. I hope this decision will be reconsidered in light of practical options that can accomplish both goals.
Lori Morse,
Stuart
