I disagree with Eugene Skibitsky’s letter about the merger of SAD 21 and Peru (April 7). The merger will have a positive effect on all communities that are involved. Peru would be a great addition to our district.

I believe the superintendents and school boards have done an excellent job of providing taxpayers with information about the merger. They admit that details need to be worked out, but that cannot be done yet.

The location of a new school is one of those details that will be determined after the boards combine. Peru and Canton would like to see a school built on their side of the river. It is important to remember that there are other towns in the district besides Dixfield. Students who live in Canton and Carthage have been bused to Dixfield for decades. Why shouldn’t Dixfield have to travel to Canton or Peru?

Many of Mr. Skibitsky’s facts were inaccurate. The SAD 21 Board of Directors did muster a positive vote for the merger. Legally, the board had to allow the voters to vote on the merger. Also, with the 90-10 agreement, Canton, Carthage and Dixfield will pay less for the education of their students. Peru will pay more.

In a merger such as this, there are going to be positive and negative points. Some will remain unknown until the merger goes through. Mr. Skibitsky appears concerned with busing, location and Dixfield’s cost share. As taxpayers and parents, we should be concerned with our children’s education.
Elaine Ferland, Canton

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