I am writing to express my sympathies for all those affected by the problem of closing Trafton School in Arlington. It is troublesome for the entire district as well.

Yet, a greater loss would be more layoffs and program terminations. The diminishing number of teaching jobs is a frightening hardship for educators as well as a long-term threat to our education system. Imagine how a teacher would feel if we chose to spend millions on operating Trafton for a few more years while handing them a pink slip.

Those millions of dollars could also help purchase new technology that is revolutionizing learning, individualizing coursework, providing achievement for everyone. Technology like the Arlington Education Foundation is helping to provide. Things like interactive blackboard-screens that consistently achieve 100 percent class lesson comprehension with instant feedback for the teacher, modern video equipment and wonderful enrichment for grade-schoolers in a new choral library. These funds are raised privately for use by educators in the school district to help fulfill the destinies of our young people and provide the inspiration that can prevent wasted lives.

I understand the passions in advocating for keeping the beautiful old schoolhouse open. It can seem as if it is a living, breathing part of our lives. But could the old girl speak aloud, I think she would implore us, “for the sake of my kids, let me go.” We will all grieve, and cherish her memories the more; for beauty and perfection on this planet will always entail impermanence.

Kurt McVay

Board member

Arlington Education Foundation