I will be voting to support a new middle school that will not directly benefit my children.  Why?  Because I care about all kids, not just mine.  Because everyone in our community benefits from our exceptional school system.  Because the American educational system is premised on a moral obligation to provide quality schooling as a necessary precondition for an informed electorate.  Because it’s the right solution. And because it’s past time.

I’m flabbergasted that the public debate concerning the proposed middle school has yet to illuminate that the very same concerns about the present facility were instrumental in convincing the community to build the new high school.  Throwback 20 years and it was in part falling ceiling tiles, buckets under a leaking roof, and inadequate heating at CRHS that bolstered the groundswell of public support for the new facility that we now know as CHRHS.  Things haven’t gotten any better. Despite the dedication of the building and grounds crew, twenty years hasn't helped a facility that was arguably beyond its usefulness even before we entered the present century.

I grew up in Thomaston.  I bought a house there and moved back home when I finished grad school.  Then I came to work at CHRHS.  I recognized what this community has in its school system and moved my family here — for its schools — where my boys have both thrived.  I’m not alone.  Our schools are a principal reason that families move here.  New residents could relocate anywhere along the midcoast; they come here for the schools.  Ask a realtor you know.  Is “How are the schools?” the fifth question prospective buyers ask?  The third?  The first?  I assure you—it’s high on the list. 

My tax dollars will educate my own kids for a few years more, then I will take my turn—gladly—helping to educate other people’s children.  As for middle level kids (and the educators to whom we entrust them), I hope it’s in a facility that facilitates learning, not mold growth.  Sure, wearing your coat throughout the day in your poorly heated classroom builds character, but does it enhance the teaching and learning process?

The decision to bring forward the proposal on which we will vote Tuesday was a public decision.  Stakeholders were informed and involved all along the way.  These stakeholders weighed the possibilities and determined the best solution. I will be supporting it enthusiastically. 

Piet Lammert lives in Rockport. He is assistant principal at Camden Hills Regional High School.