Polk closing shows lack of concern for kids

I've lived next to Polk Elementary School for 30 years. I watched in horror as the school board closed this premier school with parents fighting to save this positive thing in their lives!

This was not just a Polk issue, but a citywide issue that will affect other schools. And while this took place, where were the City Council, the legislators and the governor? Whatever happened to fighting for what is right, for protecting our children, giving them an equal playing field, saving their dreams and providing stability?

The school board solution:

1. Provide counseling while Polk kids are on intersession.

2. Provide a 15-minute parent discussion at Johnson. All questions had to be preapproved.

3. Have 25-30 kids per class at Arthur.

4. Send kids to Taylor under threat of closing next year. Busing for only one year.

5. Fill Polk with kids with disabilities. Remodel building.

6. Build a $44 million “luxury” ESC (administrative) building.

Sadly, most of the parents in the Polk area will no longer be able to walk their kids to school or be there for their kids as they are separated around the city. Shame on those who didn't fight hard enough or at all for Iowa's kids!

Catherine Techau

Cedar Rapids