Teachers to protest Strough school closing
ROME -- A massive reconstruction project has stirred a controversy in the city of Rome.
The Rome teachers plan to picket this evening’s board of education meeting.
They claim that the relocation of students to make way for construction will have a detrimental effect on students.
Specifically, teachers say they are upset with plans to close Strough middle school next year, a move that would force students to attend a different school.
According to a Rome Teacher’s Association news release, the teachers say they are trying to “shine a light” on the adverse effect this "ill-conceived” construction plan will have on students.
Rob Wood, President of the Rome Teacher’s Association says, “Consistency is an important part of the education of our students. We are dismayed that the board chose a path of complete disruption.”
In a phone interview with CNY Central’s Jim Kenyon, Rome School Board President Patricia Reidel said, “The $25 million renovation of the 70-year-old building involves asbestos removal. I can’t keep children in a building with asbestos renovation. I’m not going to jeopardize health.”
Reidel says the decision to close Strough School for renovations is less expensive, as it will take only one year to complete the project, as opposed to two years were they to keep the building open during the project.
The relocation plan will place 7th and 8th graders in the Staley Upper Elementary School during the 2013-14 school year.
The Rome City School District said in a news release that they appointed an advisory committee of teachers and community members that met from January to August to examine the impact the closure would have on the students and staff.
The board said "there is no perfect option," but that the Strough-Staley plan offered the "greatest likelihood" for efficiency and safety.
Superintendent Jeffrey P. Simmons released this statement about the relocation: "The Rome City School District's plan ensures the health and safety of our students and staff during the renovation period. This is a temporary arrangement which will maintain quality educational programs for students and staff."
