Please vote ‘Yes’ for new GMS
By GuestDear Community Members:
I am urging you to vote ‘Yes’ in support of a new Galvin Middle School. It is our only opportunity to build a facility with MSBA funding that is worthy of the academic, artistic and athletic talents of our young people.
I am a Canton resident and a teacher at the Galvin Middle School. I am also a Galvin Middle School graduate! Every morning, I open the same door, walk up the same stairs, and down the same locker-lined hallway I did as a student over 30 years ago. I walk into the same windowless science classroom with the same dysfunctional sinks, tables, and chairs. I stare up at the same moldy, stained ceiling tiles, and move aside barrels that catch water leaks from a roof that is in disrepair.
The students in front of me, however, are not the same. They are dynamic learners who deserve better! They need the technology and facilities to match their enthusiasm to innovate, collaborate, design and engage in deeper learning practices. Our current school building does not match the potential these students have and does not promote the educational skills and resources necessary for 21st century learning.
Our 50-year-old facility does not meet today’s security, accessibility and health standards. The library has been converted into three makeshift classrooms. We have constant technology issues that disrupt learning. We do not have a performance space to support our robust arts programming. (Did you attend Cantonstock or the spring musical Matilda?)
Our gymnasium does not have proper ventilation or a regulation-size court. In addition, three aging elementary schools are overcrowded. Building a facility for grades 5-8 would help alleviate these strains and allow space to offer equitable programs for all students and even the community at large.
Neighboring communities have made the decision to invest in their town and their students.
We have one chance to do this right and to create a proper facility that the entire town can use.
I urge you to do your homework and personally review the information that has been provided on this project. I have attended building meetings and community forums regarding the design and funding for this project. I can tell you firsthand that the many stakeholders involved have worked collaboratively to find the best solutions for our students and our town.
It is unfortunate that the students of this town — the beneficiaries — cannot participate in this vote. But you can! Please use your vote to support the children of our community! Your vote is not a bartering chip. Please invest in our town’s future!
Show up to the vote on November 18 — we need you to make this happen!
Andrea Stuart
Short URL: https://www.thecantoncitizen.com/?p=128077
Posted by Guest
on Nov 14 2024. Filed under From One Citizen to Another, Opinion.
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