Dan Becker: Answer to Follow Up Question(s)

Do you believe that some form of restructuring is necessary? Do you know of a way to restructure that does not involve trade-offs? If trade-offs are necessary, what trade-offs would you urge the community to consider and possibly accept?

I do believe that some form of restructuring is necessary. However, I do not believe that the current plan is the best solution to the problems that the district faces. Solutions do exist that minimize the tradeoffs that would be necessary.

I have given some serious consideration to the idea of "fluid boundaries". This approach would eliminate the necessity to "cherry pick" a particular area, which is what Scenario 7 does. Under such a plan, as I envision it, changes would be made to the boundaries of our easternmost schools in order to achieve optimal capacity. The process would then move westward. Using this approach would allow us to more fully utilize buildings on the East/North side of town. At the same time it would provide for the additional space that is necessary as the community grows to the West. The necessity to close a building may still be deemed necessary, but a minimal number of families would be impacted as a result.

As I said, it is not for me to suggest what tradeoffs the community should accept. I will seek out comments and feelings and make my decisions based on community input.