Over the past several weeks, I read and listened to the school board’s defense of the proposed closing of Faith Elementary and reassignment of its students.

The only narrative I have heard from the board is that of money and buildings. The issue of improving the quality of education is not being raised. This should be top priority in all minds involved.

I understand that fiscal issues and budgets are necessary things to focus on, but the cost of the quality of education must abrogate that decision. The age of a building does not correlate to the quality of education.

Large expenditures are part of a new plan, including the construction of new, larger buildings that will greatly increase school size.

I would suggest that those funds would best serve local, public education by hiring additional teachers, aides, raising teacher pay and other, direct education support systems.

Would this the most efficient use to better our children’s education quality? More  than likely.

The proposed moves, which have now been delayed, will not help the students at Faith or at Koontz.

Koontz has been noted as a failing school. Why not address this issue by placing more efforts in helping those students succeed instead of reassigning them and disrupting an already challenging situation?

Those student deserve the chance to prove their potential. Give them the real tools to succeed, not a new parking lot or new building.

The board is not addressing this issue.

Again, I urge the school board to refocus their efforts on education, not just the bottom line. Long term, increased school performance will increase enrollment, finances and be a factor in drawing people and business to Rowan County.

— Eric Webster

Faith