Recently, the SAD 21 board voted to begin the process of closing Canton Elementary School. I have been opposed to this action. In the past, the community stood behind Canton School, working to keep it open. This time, residents of Canton asked that the school be closed.

For the first time in generations, Canton School will not open, and its special educational environment will become something of the past. I’m sorry for the kids who will never experience it.

I’m confident that the staff at the Peru school will work hard to provide our children a comparable learning experience.

As a board member who did not embrace the change, I have come to recognize that times have changed. Reduced enrollments, pressure for consolidation and unfunded federal mandates have forced small districts to rethink how we educate our children. Fewer educational dollars means making hard choices to obtain the best education we can provide.

Looking forward, the district will build a new elementary school. We should embrace this facility with the support and energy we once invested in Canton School. Use that same energy to provide them the tools for the opportunity to have successful and fulfilling lives. What greater legacy can we give them?

In a few weeks, we will vote to officially close Canton School. At that time, I would encourage everyone to vote to accept this closing, knowing that we are opening up new and exciting opportunities for our children.

Ben McCollister, member,

School Administrative District 21, representing Canton