I am writing this letter from the perspective of a teacher who has taught in Westbrook schools for a long time. Additionally, as president-elect of the Westbrook Education Association speaking on behalf of other Westbrook educators, I urge the citizens of Westbrook to vote on May 22 in favor of the referendum on the new Westbrook middle school and auditorium.
From a teacher’s perspective, the importance of a quality school facility cannot be overemphasized. The learning environment does make a difference and Westbrook middle-school students deserve a well-designed, technologically up-to-date, well-lit and comfortable school.
The proposed auditorium is important for a number of reasons. Westbrook would be able to showcase its fine music programs, not only for middle-school students, but for all students K-12. The auditorium would be a wonderful place for the school department’s drama programs to perform. Westbrook doesn’t currently have a good place for community music and drama events, but a 1,000- seat auditorium would serve that need very well. It could also be used to attract performances from outside the city and could therefore generate income.
Schools are becoming year-round venues for various events. The climate-controlled nature of the new school and auditorium will lend themselves to use even during hot and humid summer months. The facility will become the location of choice for summer school programs, staff development, performances and any number of activities needing a comfortable venue.
The Maine Department of Education will spend approximately $26 million toward a new Westbrook middle school. Please support Westbrook students and vote yes to accept the state funding. Help bring both a state-of-the-art school and an auditorium to both Westbrook students and to citizens in general.
Sally Plourde
Teacher, Prides Corner School
Westbrook
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