As a teacher and a parent, we feel it is necessary to have our say about the possible closing of Wales Central School.

Thirty-two years ago, when we were looking for our first home, we asked questions about the school in Wales. How far away? Two miles. How many grades? Kindergarten through eighth grade. How many students per room? Fewer than 15. Yes, a real neighborhood school existed.

As a teacher, I know that young people can have anxiety about school, teachers, busing and large classes. Middle-grade students have the added challenges of their changing bodies and emerging feelings about sexuality. Changing schools every two or three years adds unnecessary transitions to what could be a seamless learning environment.

These facts can and do affect learning. With the stability of a neighborhood school, teachers, students and their families develop strong, positive relationships. This enables students to feel secure in their school while they enter puberty and confident about who they are before they enter high school.

Because our children are now successful adults, thanks to their successful start at Wales Central School, we will be affected by the school staying open or closing. We do feel that the children of Wales deserve the best education possible in the formative years.

The families of Wales would be making a sound investment in their children’s futures by voting to keep Wales Central School open.

Mike and Grace Trainor, Wales