Sure, we understand that there are some families in the community who will want school choice. That is a very tempting proposition to some. But there are still options out there for those who really feel strongly: lotteries, private school, or relocation are just three examples. The choices may not be as convenient, but they are there.
As for other reasons cited for dissolving the contract, the one that sticks in our craw the most is the feeling of some behind the petition that Wilmington, due to its larger population base, will dominate the district and call the shots.
We reject this distrust argument. At best it’s wrong, and at worst it’s extremely divisive. We’ve seen nothing over the past five years to indicate that, and even Whitingham’s own representatives on the Twin Valley board say that is not the case.
Towns that make up the extended Deerfield Valley need to develop a new paradigm, one that focuses on cooperation and working together toward common goals. Gone are the days when a community could solve all of its problems by itself. Certain things are just too big and complex for a small town to take on alone.
Whitingham, Wilmington, and Dover have taken the first steps toward working together on the economic development front over the past two years, through the tri-town committee. Breaking up the Twin Valley district would be a big blow to that spirit of cooperation. A viable, progressive school system is critical to any long-term economic development strategy.
The bottom line is that we need to cooperate and work together. By keeping the Twin Valley school district intact, we start that spirit of cooperation and understanding in the youth of our community. That is perhaps the best long-term plan we can have.
Vote “no” on Wednesday.
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