Letter to the editor: Tour was ‘truly an eye-opener’
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 JESSICA D. SIMPSON
I retired to Cape Elizabeth 12 years ago. Driving past the campus of Pond Cove, the MS and the HS, it looked lovely and welcoming. Knowing that the CE school district was one of the best, with excellent faculty, administration, involved parents, and children who excelled, I assumed our school buildings reflected these attributes and more.
After reading the back page of the Sept 21- Oct 4th Cape Courier outlining the history of expansion/renovations of the Cape schools, and before I decided how to vote, I joined a tour with 50 other Capers.
I was shocked! These buildings, sorry to say, were depressing. Cinder block walls, drop ceilings, ugly floors, and the need for space is totally apparent – every nook and cranny filled with a desk and chair for a professional and student, but surrounded by overflowing supplies. Worst of all is the layout. There are long hallways, going in every direction, leaving students and staff cut off from the rest. The main office is about 75’ from the entrance to the school. There are no auditoriums. The kitchen, which serves breakfast and lunch to both schools, is incredibly tiny and inadequate.
Afterwards, an architect showed me the new design. Nothing flashy, but making a lot of sense. The new schools will be built on the same campus, different area, without disruption for the children.
Touring the was truly was an eye-opener, and I will vote “Yes” for my community and my property values. Join a tour, and see for yourself.
