Letter to the editor: Buildings are at the end of their useful life
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 ELIZABETH BIERMANN
After years of evaluation and extensive consideration, the School Board determined, in December, 2020, the necessity of replacing Pond Cove and Cape Elizabeth Middle School. Since then, the Town Council has authorized nearly $1 million in expenditures to formulate a plan for the new schools and a renovation of the High School. The elementary and middle school buildings are at the end of their useful life. The original method of construction and sprawling footprint will not permit a renovation capable of increasing energy efficiency, meeting current safety standards, accommodating modern teaching practices, nor creating expanded space for required programming needs which have expanded since the last major renovations in 1993.
Presently, Pond Cove and the Middle School use 72,000 gallons of heating oil each year, all while one classroom might be so cold markers freeze and can’t be used on a whiteboard, yet another classroom is overheated.
New efficient buildings provide functional teaching facilities to maximize educational achievement, attract top teachers, eliminate oil usage and save taxpayers millions in energy and operating and maintenance costs. Conservatively, the project cost will increase at a rate of $4 million/year. The buildings cannot be used as they are. It is fiscally irresponsible for our town to delay any longer, sticking taxpayers with a larger bill than necessary. Neighboring towns have made similar investments in their schools. Now it’s time for Cape Elizabeth to finally address these old buildings to maintain the educational excellence our town values.
