Jennifer Zaborowski's Letter to the Editor 11/12/09: Getting what we asked for

I was saddened to see recent allegations leveled at the New Paltz School Board. I would like to respond on their behalf.

First of all, I have been impressed with the way the board responded to the outcry from the community over the New Paltz Middle School debate. Board members listened, agreed with the position expressed by the community and are now moving forward with a renovation.

I felt I had a clear understanding of the options with this decision based on what the School Board published (in many formats, to make sure the information reached a wide audience). It was clearly explained that there would be some cost associated with the renovation option because of existing problems and the school's failure to meet standards enacted after its original construction (in the kitchen and accessibility, to cite just two).

By all means, let's have a dialog about the direction of the school district. But let's be fair.

The cost of the renovation is balanced by what it will achieve: many of us value creating a more sustainable construction that will use more efficient (and more environmentally responsible) energy. We want the school to be modern and accessible to everyone, safe and comfortable. Why even renovate if none of the problems are addressed and we have to do this again in ten years? I will still have kids in school then and the idea doesn't make me happy, not one bit. Let's fix the problems, adopt a greener approach and realize not only energy savings but savings on future repairs.

Let's be very clear: this board is working very hard to respond on this issue, to hear all the views and to present plans openly to anyone who cares to participate. I am unclear how this solicited claims of racism or fiscal irresponsibility. The community demanded a green construction and a renovation and that is what we are getting.

Let's also understand the substantial risk of putting this off. Interest rates are low, slow business has driven down construction costs, both of which reduce the size of the debt.

Many members of our community live in historic homes. They face the same dilemma: what do we save and what must we replace? They talk to contractors, understand what is environmentally sound and will require the least upkeep later on and what is the best way to retain the historical appeal while taking advantage of energy-saving design. That is exactly what this board is doing. We need to support their efforts and rather than take swipes in a public forum, go to the meetings and participate in a productive fashion.

Finally -- I'm as conservative as anyone you will meet in New Paltz and I have participated in this discussion from the beginning. I don't always agree with policies, such as the no-homework policy recently passed, but I do support what the board is trying to do for our community and our children. I appreciate the steps taken to make sure I know what this will cost, how the decisions are being researched and made and what this board is up to. It is important to voice opinions as taxpayers, residents and parents -- but let's be fair when we do it.

Jennifer Zaborowski
New Paltz