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We heard from the President of the Holton PTA, responding in part to the pages on this site about the noise problem at Holton.
"Theresa McMullin" <tamcmullin@cavtel.net> 10/14/01 10:17PM
Dear Mr. Pfohl,
I am writing to you because I have just become aware of the articles in the Bellevue Civic Association's web site which are written with seeming animosity towards the public schools in the City of Richmond, and most specifically, Holton Elementary.
I understand from reading the editorials throughout your website that the lighting and noise from Holton were problems for some of the immediate neighbors to the school site, and apparently a "rallying call" of sorts for those who were not thrilled with the placement of the school on a beloved open space. However, I believe that the school board and administration have done their best to resolve those problems. Continuing to have a negative article included in your web site even after attempts have been made to alleviate problems and concerns seems to show a very definite bias, and one in which no one can "win."
Our communities have been given a wonderful opportunity to have a neighborhood elementary school, where the students are surrounded by a sense of community - the type of community that supports and nurtures the education of the children entrusted to the school. The families and staff at Holton are all working very hard to ensure that it becomes a model of excellence within the city, both socially and academically. It is precisely the type of environment that draws many middle class families to the suburbs - a school within walking distance, where children are in school with their neighbors and friends, where academic standards are high, and where parents feel safe and secure that their child will be in good hands.
I assume that the Bellevue Civic Association does not mean to undermine the good feelings of the parents in Bellevue (or Ginter Park, Sherwood Park or Rosedale) who send their children to Holton, and in fact, may not even realize the negative impact these types of articles can have. And, I am sure that you, as a board, would not want to lessen the appeal of our neighborhoods to young families who are looking to buy a home and establish a sense of community in North Side.
This school, for all of the trees that had to come down, all of the light fixtures that had to be replaced, and all of the compressors that had to be fixed, is very much a part of Bellevue, and has become part of the character of our entire North Side. It is up to us as adults in the community to work to make our neighborhood a better place by supporting one another in our common goals. Holton is a part of this community, and we would like to be viewed as a good neighbor.
I look forward to working with you in the years to come as we all work to enhance the character and sense of community in our neighborhood. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Theresa McMullin
Holton PTA President