I am dismayed that the Auburn School Department made the decision to open the schools on Feb. 27, despite the heavy snow storm of the night before.

First and foremost, that poor decision put children at risk. There was not enough time to clear sidewalks, forcing the children to walk in the street. Buses had a very difficult time navigating unplowed streets. The risk of accidents skyrockets in those conditions. Even streets right in front of Walton Elementary School were not plowed. Furthermore, with a parking ban in effect for the entire school day, parents and teachers had no choice but to violate the law to drop off children.

The argument can (and will) be made that additional school days will extend the year. That doesn’t have to be the case. Eliminate the April vacation week, which is unnecessary.

The Auburn Highway Department claims that it coordinates with the school department. So what happened? Why was such a poor decision made? Certainly the information on street status was available.

Does the Auburn School Department really have the right leadership?

Walter Reed, Auburn