Letter to the editor: Our children deserve better
Please note: This letter reflects opinions regarding the November 2022 school referendum to construct a new, combined elementary and middle school. It does not represent the current 2024 Cape Elizabeth school proposal.
BY ABBEY FORCIER
I am writing this letter because of the most recent threat to our neighboring school district of Scarborough. While it is by far the last thing any parent wants to imagine, I cannot help but think of how poorly our school buildings would fare against a serious threat.
My children recently started attending Pond Cove, and it’s impossible not to notice how many exterior entryways there are or that an intruder would have access to large student spaces such as the gymnasium and cafetorium BEFORE being within line of sight of the main offices.
Although I would like to think we are immune to these threats in our community, this week’s threat to Scarborough schools proved otherwise.
It is my understanding that the schools have been very thoughtful in applying for grants to improve security technology that can be used in the new buildings; however, they are still faced with many challenges given the current sprawling layout.
It’s been 23 years since Columbine and 28 years since the last major upgrades to Pond Cove and CEMS. We know more now, and it’s time to build our students a safe and secure modern school; our children deserve better.
