To the Editor:

Thank you Board of Education for listening and hearing what many in Newtown had to say and unanimously voting to not close a school in the 2016-17 academic year.  At this meeting, the board agreed that more work needs to be done, more information needs to be collected, and that the community needs to be involved in the process.  Thank you all for truly hearing us!

Since the June 2 recommendation by our Superintendant of Schools that Hawley Elementary School should close in the 2016-17 school year, a grassroots campaign was started.  In just three short weeks many people have been activated to work together to prevent one of Newtown schools from closing. 

Well, this does not mean we are done – not by a long shot.  I, for one, won't fall asleep again.  I am going to stay involved and informed in the processes of our town, especially as we move to budget process time and votes.  I urge all of you to do the same.

Every adult in our community should be involved in this process, they should know what it all means and where it all goes.  Most importantly, everyone should vote when the time comes.  If you choose to not be involved and don't vote, you certainly shouldn't complain.

Thank you again to the Board of Education for making what I feel was the right decision for all of Newtown and our children.

Susan W. Chung

2 Crows Nest Lane, Sandy Hook    June 30, 2015