Recently, there was a school committee meeting at Elm Street School. One objective was to determine the status of the teachers’ contract, which has been delayed for two years.

Parents and grandparents were given the floor first and all agreed that a building starts with a good foundation (personnel) and then come the several floors (the school). All agreed on the positive attitudes, ability and sensitivity to children that these teachers have, not to mention the scholastic results and positive attitudes of students.

Board members stated they had 100 percent respect for teachers, which was nothing more than political talk. We were not there for respect.

Next, they informed us that Mechanic Falls was “a very poor community” and that town meetings showed the people of Mechanic Falls could not afford the school raises. Had the citizens not planned a good scholastic school with average paid teachers?

To me, that was one of the lowest blows to the people of Mechanic Falls that I had ever heard. Mechanic Falls is a home community where everyone is like family.

Has the board seen students’ attire? Has a member of the board worked at a book fair where some students walk in with $65 to $100 in cash in their pockets and only a handful with less than $20? This is poor?

The several floors are falling and the foundation is cracking. Citizens should take note.

Paula Baril, Poland

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