public comments to town council re: saxe middle … · public comments to town council re: saxe...
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1
Public Comments to Town Council
Re: Saxe Middle School Design Project
Speakers during Public Hearing held by the Town Council Meeting on July 15, 2015
1 Michael Nowacki 319 Lost District Drive
2 Janet Fonss 253 Turtle Back Road
3 Rich Vachula 61 Knollwood Lane
4 Katie Owsley 41 Green Ave
5 Katrina Parkhill 597 Weed Street
6 Becky Ethridge 585 Weed Street
7 Darcy Smith 27 Woodridge Circle
8 Ian Hobbs 255 Main Street
9 Bill Driscoll 120 Old Stamford Road
10 Hazel Hobbs Main Street
11 Sangeeta Appel Hoyt Farm Road
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Emails received by Town Council on the Saxe Middle School Design Project prior to and as of
7/15/15 Public Hearing
________________________________________
From: Janee <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, July 15, 2015 5:28 PM
To: TCDistribution
Subject: Saxe 12 room addition
Hello,
I am writing to ask you to support the 12 room Saxe renovation project. I have three children in
the NC public schools and own a home on the West side of town. My family moved here for the
superior school system if we fail to invest in these schools our children and property values will
suffer. My oldest is at Saxe and it is woefully overcrowded. This desperately needs to be fixed. A
town with our resources can, and should, do much better.
Thank you for your service to our town.
Thank you,
Janee Hunter
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From: Meg Saunders <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, July 15, 2015 4:59 PM To: TCDistribution; Board of Finance Subject: Saxe Building Project
To the New Canaan Town Council and Board of Finance,
I am writing in support of the 12 classroom version of the Saxe Building Project. I was in
attendance during the May and June meetings and spoke in support of this version.
Unfortunately I am not able to attend the meetings this week so wanted to take the chance
to reiterate how important I feel the full 12 classroom addition is to both New Canaan
students and the town as a whole.
Three years ago when our older daughter was approaching kindergarten we chose to move
to New Canaan because of the excellence of the school system. Practically everyone we
met at our daughters' nursery schools and in Newcomers had made the same choice for the
same reason. Now that our children are both in East School (1st and 3rd grade) we are
hoping that the excellent experience they have had thus far continues upon entering Saxe in
a few years. Overcrowding is detrimental to test scores and students' emotional well-being
(and trailers are detrimental to house prices). Please do not let the town down, please
support the full renovation and expansion.
Meg Saunders, East School PTC Co-President
152 Long Lots Road
(832)630-1938
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Magliacano, Marc <[email protected]>
Wed 7/15/2015 4:48 PM
Inbox
To:
TCDistribution;
BoSDistribution;
Board of Finance;
For all that are concerned, I would like to communicate my unwavering and absolute support for the 12 Room Expansion Plan at Saxe Middle School. Please, please, please do not allow the repeat “No” voters of NC on every town investment decision, also known as the tiny, vocal minority, to influence a critical decision that impacts the future of the town on multiple levels including New Canaan’s educational standing and its ability to deliver the highest quality education. Thanks Marc & Maria Magliacano 117 Elm Pl New Canaan
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From: Stevens, Glenn <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, July 15, 2015 4:46 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe expansion plan
Just a quick note to log my support for the Saxe 12 room expansion plan. I reside at 56 Old Norwalk Road in New Canaan. Glenn Stevens |
599 W. Putnam Ave | Greenwich, CT 06830 Tel: 203.629.4901 | Cell: 203.274.2991 | Fax: 203.629.4903
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From: Christen V. Garcia <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, July 15, 2015 4:43 PM
To: TCDistribution
Subject: Saxe Expansion-Support!
Dear Town Council Members,
I am writing to you today in support of the proposed 12 room Saxe renovation/expansion.
I am a fourteen year resident of New Canaan and the mother of four young children, three of whom are currently
enrolled in the New Canaan Public Schools. I have one child at Saxe Middle School, two children at West School,
one child who will enter Kindergarten at West School this coming fall. I am committed to making my children's
education the best that it can be, as well as supporting New Canaan's excellent educational standards and
reputation. I believe that approval of the 12 room expansion will facilitate our high educational standards and
benefit our children and the residents of New Canaan for years to come.
Thank you for your consideration. Please feel free to contact me with questions or concerns.
Very best,
Christen Garcia
203.972.0568
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From: Tia Whinery <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, July 15, 2015 2:55 PM To: Board of Finance; TCDistribution; BoSDistribution Subject: Saxe Expansion Plan
To Whom it May Concern, I want to express my strong support for the 12 room expansion plan at Saxe. We moved here from Boston and specifically chose to buy a home in New Canaan based on the excellent schools. As long as our schools continue to excel our town will be a magnet for families. I strongly believe we must make sure we are thinking strategically when it comes to our schools. Is $30 (which I believe is the difference between the 2 plans per tax paying family) too much to spend? I don't want our schools to have to be "creative" with space when we have the ability to move forward with a 12 classroom solution. This is a very important issue to me and one that will be bringing me to the caucuses in July. I look forward to supporting those candidates that support the 12 classroom option. Best Regards, Tia Whinery 17 Woodland Rd New Canaan, CT 06840
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From: Erin Gaudreau <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, July 15, 2015 2:29 PM To: Board of Finance; TCDistribution; BoSDistribution Cc: chip gaudreau Subject: Saxe Expansion
Dear New Canaan Town Council, Board of Selectman and Board of Finance,
I am not sure if I will be able to attend tonights meeting at the Nature Center but my husband and I would like to voice
our support of the 12 room expansion of Saxe Middle School. Our oldest child is a rising 6th grader at Saxe and there is a
definite need for more space with the current population of the school. I know that in the years to come this population
will increase tremendously. To accomodate the children, teachers, staff and administration in a way that supports a
positive and productive learning environment this expansion must happen. Trailers and other temporary types of
classrooms really are not an option that is acceptable and is only prolonging the inevitable expansion of Saxe that is
clearly needed with our growing numbers.
I also feel it important that accurate information gets communicated. The expansion is not for 4 new teacher's lounges as
was inaccurately communicated after a previous meeting and led to confusion and hesitation within the community nor
should this expansion in the current state it is proposed be held up due to comments about the lunch room that were
made at a previous meeting. My daughter has never complained about her access to lunch in the cafeteria.
I understand that no vote is happening tonight (it is a longer process) but I feel it is important that you all know how
important this issue is to us and many other members of our community. New Canaan public schools have an excellent
reputation. This expansion is not only necessary for our children but will continue to send the strong message of the
town's committment to education.
Thank you for your time.
Erin and Russell Gaudreau
144 Marshall Ridge Road
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From: Sara Rivas <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, July 15, 2015 1:59 PM To: TCDistribution; Board of Finance; BoSDistribution Subject: Saxe Building Project
Dear Town Council and Board of Finance Representatives:
This email is simply to voice my strong support for the 12-room expansion plan at Saxe Middle School.
With two of my three children currently in Saxe, it is evident to me that the school is indeed overcrowded.
I believe the proposed expansion will alleviate the overcrowding and will allow the school to continue to
enhance the wonderful programs recently put into place.
Thank you!
Sincerely,
Sara Rivas
Sara Rivas
48 Fitch Lane
New Canaan, CT 06840
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________________________________________
From: Abby Dunkin <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, July 15, 2015 1:32 PM
To: BoSDistribution; Board of Finance; TCDistribution
Subject: Saxe Expansion -vote yes to an addition 12 rooms
Dear Town Council,
I am not sure if I will be able to attend tonight's meeting at the Nature Center but my husband and I would like to
voice our support of the 12 room expansion of Saxe Middle School. I know that in the years to come this
population will increase tremendously. To accomodate the children, teachers, staff and administration in a way
that supports a positive and productive learning environment this expansion must happen. Trailers and other
temporary types of classrooms really are not an option that is acceptable and is only prolonging the inevitable
expansion of Saxe that is clearly needed with our growing numbers.
New Canaan public schools have an excellent reputation. This expansion will continue to send the strong message
of the town's commitment to education.
Thank you for your time,
Abby and Brad Dunkin
25 Meadow Lane
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________________________________________
From: Ann Dunn <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 13, 2015 8:07 AM
To: TCDistribution; Board of Finance
Subject: Support of Proposed Saxe Building Project
Ladies and Gentlemen:
I understand that the Board of Finance and Town Council are meeting on July 14th and 15th and are currently in
the process of determining whether to support the Saxe Building Committee's recommended building project,
which includes providing for a 12 classroom addition in the northwest portion of Saxe, fully renovating the
auditorium, and right-sizing the music/VPA spaces.
I am writing to show my support of the Saxe Building Committee’s recommendation. I have expressed my views
during the public comment period at the June 17th Town Council meeting, but due to the importance of this
project, I feel that they are worth reiterating. My family and I moved to New Canaan approximately three years
ago, and the number one reason we choose New Canaan was the great public school system. I have three
children, soon to be in the 1st, 3rd and 5th grades, so Saxe Middle School will be a part of my family’s life for many
years.
An overcrowded learning environment is unproductive for students and teachers alike, yet the expectation is that
they will still perform well. Saxe was recently awarded the best middle school in the State of Connecticut but
Niche.com. I applaud all of those that helped bring this recognition to Saxe, as I am sure it was not easily achieved.
This award supports the wonderful reputation of the New Canaan Public School System, but how long can this
reputation remain golden when the Town’s middle school cannot properly house its students? Good reputations
are so difficult to achieve but so easily lost. It would be unfortunate for New Canaan to lose its solid school
reputation because the Town would not invest in adequate space for its middle school students and teachers.
Kind regards,
Ann Dunn
960 Silvermine Road
New Canaan, CT
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From: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Sent: Sunday, July 12, 2015 2:27 PM
To: TCDistribution; Board of Finance; Mallozzi, Robert
Subject: response to Penny Rashin
Penny Rashin in her weak response to "Why not put 5th grade back to the elementary Schools" Says Having a 5-8 grade at the middle school provides many advantages to the students and community 1) Access to a Larger Library NO big deal ! --there is Library, a Internet, and public library---- right 2) Access to stem, Art, music and other rooms and resources No Art and music in k-4? 3) Access to Drama productions, clubs and other activities. Have to wait a year wow - will stunt their growth 4) would create a need for additional staffing and classrooms. How can she say this with a straight face -- when she tells the TC that their will be no additional staff needed because of the 13 classrooms The same teacher that teach 5th will go back to elementary with the students . 5) students would be in 3 separate schools, the three elementary schools would have to be expanded, significantly, and economies of scale would be lost This is her miss speak again -- elementary under peak by 300 + students Here is a suggestion -- lets get some feed back from all the parents with a questionnaire We could ask the K-4 would they like a bigger school or smaller We could ask the 5-8 what they think bigger or smaller (being there now) and the 9-12 the same question (having been there) we want the best school not the biggest -- we always say we are doing this for the Parents and the children lets see what they think See if they would prefer their kids stay an extra yr. at the elementary schools I think the answer would be yes -- but Give the TC the mailing list of all the parents so they can send out a questionnaire on what they would prefer, we do want them to be happy right Parents now think the school is to crowded now -- they have the 5+6 on one shift and 7+8 on another. Many say they don't think their children are mature enough to handle the peer pressure in this school. This school is the biggest middle school in the state - Just for your info it ranks up their with the biggest in the US which is Greekland Middle School, Lawrenceville, Ga in Gwinnett County it has 2,237 students The BOE creditability keeps going down when they make these non sensible statements Let the parents decide is bigger better Richard P Vachula PS -- others have option like all 8th back to HS, only college 8th back to HS
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From: [email protected] <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, July 8, 2015 8:37 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: The proposed Saxe Building project!
Please, PLEASE consider making this happen! Our children are worth it...right? Most Sincerely, Toni Brousseau
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From: Hansson-Bo, Jennifer (GE Capital) <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, July 8, 2015 12:12 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe Building Project
To whom it may concern I’d like to show my full support and hope that the work on Saxe will soon be decided and commenced as it is critical for our children to have good facilities while furthering their education. I am a mom of 3, the oldest one is just about to go into Sax this fall. I visited Saxe for the first time in May and was surprised by the condition of the school and have since understood the great concern for lack of space – Please the this project happen … and soon! R’s Jennifer Bo
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From: Chris Deasy <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, June 25, 2015 10:03 PM
To: TCDistribution
Subject: Saxe Building Renovations and Additions Update
To whom it may concern,
Please note that the subject project has our full support as proposed.
Best regards,
Chris and Julie Deasy
23 Douglas Road
New Canaan, CT 06840
203-376-5612
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________________________________________
From: Phyl Condon <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, June 24, 2015 5:07 PM
To: TCDistribution
Subject: Saxe project
Dear Sirs and Madames,
I am not in favor of the Saxe project to add the 12 classrooms.
It would be prudent to keep the fifth graders at their respective schools for
many reasons; they do not belong in the middle school. These students would
be better served housed in mobile units and additions/ renovations to the
elementary schools instead.
Sincerely,
Phyl Condon
Sent from my iPhone
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Public Comments to Town Council
Re: Saxe Middle School Design Project
Speakers during Public Comments at Town Council Meeting held on June 17, 2015
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23
Roy Abramowitz Richard Vachula Diane Hobbs Brian West Rob Cioffi Tara Lockhart Darcy Smith Katie & Jon Owsley Patty Zoccolillo Margaret Saunders Stephanie Taylor Janet & Ryan Lee Ann Dunn Melissa Coffman Kristin Barnard Shekaiba Bennett Marty Skrelunas Laura Prior Babette DeFelice Michael Nowacki Dave Hunt Elyse Pitts Maria Weingarten
581 Laurel Road 61 Knollwood Lane 255 Main Street 255 West Hills Road 22 Ramline Road 658 Valley Road 27 Woodridge Circle 41 Green Ave 38 Fitch Lane 115 Lone Tree Farm Road 26 Thrush Lane 124 Woodridge Drive 960 Silvermine Road 78 Rural Drive 14 Dew Lane 34 Green Ave 152 Millport Ave 138 Lone Tree Farm Road 19 Father Peters Lane 219 Lost District Road 152 Butler Lane 54 Elm Place 115 Lone Tree Farm Road
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Emails received by Town Council on the Saxe Middle School Design Project as of 6/19/15
From: Ashley Shackelton <[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, June 18, 2015 2:58 PM To: Board of Finance; TCDistribution; Town Council Subject: Dear Board of Finance, I am writing to ask you to approve the recommended 12 classroom expansion at Saxe. We need this now and for future classes. Respectfully,
Ashley Shackelton
50 Old Studio Road
New Canaan, CT 06840
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From: sybille CAMPBELL <[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, June 18, 2015 1:38 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe construction project
To whom it may concern Our family will soon have children in both middle and elementary school in the New Canaan district 5th gr and 3rd gr starting in August. We have lived here for 9 years and value our community extremely highly. We have been aware of the overcrowding at Saxe for a while. Chorus has no room large enough in which to rehearse; band practices are being held in closets and hallways; teachers lounges and work spaces have been eliminated; the halls are packed with supplies and instruments. Most well informed parents know that the current Saxe building was intended for a maximum of roughly 1200 students. Current enrollment is at around 1290 and estimates through 2021 range between 1340-1410. It is our opinion that,
A 12 room addition would meet MOST but not ALL of the programming and enrollment needs at Saxe.
Saxe is currently oversubscribed, and enrollment numbers are rising
A smaller addition (7 rooms only) would not sufficiently address the overcrowding issues
Although we are unable to attend last night, we wanted the Town Council to know our opinion and take it in to account. Sincerely Peter and Sybille Campbell Sent from my iPhone
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From: Mary Lydon <[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, June 18, 2015 9:00 AM To: TCDistribution Cc: Kevin Lydon Subject: Saxe Renovation Project Dear Town Council members, Thank you all for the countless hours you devote to the town - your dedication is greatly appreciated. I was unable to attend last night’s discussion of the the Saxe Building Renovation. However I wanted to express my support for the 12 room addition. Having served in many aspects of the parent volunteer community in Saxe and having one child (soon to be two children) at Saxe and one that has recently completed her term, I can attest to the school's overcrowding and it's impact upon the education and attention our kids receive. Apart from the tangible physical realities - kids rehearsing in closets, storage in the hallways, excessive student traffic through the hallways, lunch room lines that make buying lunch an impossibility, lack of space outdoors at recess - one of the more subtle costs is the amount of time that Greg Macedo and others have to dedicate to the machinations of maneuvering 1300 kids throughout a space never intended to hold that many. The real estate trend in New Canaan continues to see more and more properties sub-divided, thus making room for more families to move to New Canaan on the whole. In itself, the fact that so many families are interested in our great town is a wonderful happening. However, this will continue to strain capacity at an already over-crowded middle school, both near and long-term. Growing up in a family of eight and raising my own family on a strict budget, I am never a fan of spending money recklessly. However, the incremental cost of doing a 12 versus 7 room addition to Saxe is money well spent. Consider the fact that a 7 room addition would in no way alleviate all or even most of the spatial pressure at Saxe, and would likely require a secondary solution in the near future. Portables are unsightly, expensive and wreak havoc upon a school's operations, as well as introducing a potentially unsafe learning environment during an emergency. I ask that you consider the clear need for more space, as well as the future cost of not pursuing the 12 room expansion, as you opine on the Saxe Renovation Project. Regards, Mary Lydon
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From: Richard Bierman <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 9:46 PM To: TCDistribution Cc: Norma Canas Subject: Support For Saxe Building Commitee Recommendation Regarding a 12-Classroom Expansion
To the Members of the New Canaan Town Council: We were unable to attend the Town Council meeting earlier this evening, but wish to write in support of the recommendation by the Saxe Building Committee that the renovations and additions include a 12 classroom expansion. A 12 classroom expansion is needed to alleviate overcrowding that Saxe Middle School students, teachers and administrators are experiencing currently and which is only projected to get worse in the near future due to rising enrollment. As the parents of future Saxe Middle School students, we are concerned that activities like chorus and band have inadequate space in which to rehearse and that teacher lounges and workspaces have been eliminated. A smaller (7 classroom) expansion will not sufficiently address overcrowding issues. If we are investing the time, energy and money to expand Saxe, shouldn't we do it right and include a 12 classroom expansion rather than a middle ground that does not adequately address the problem? In the long run, a 7 room expansion could very well cost the Town more money by forcing the School District, in the future, to adopt substandard, stopgap measures like temporary classrooms. When we chose to relocate to Fairfield County in 2003, we settled in New Canaan for a number of reasons, quality of the schools chief among them. We are not alone, and future potential residents and taxpayers will surely consider school facilities, resources and overcrowding issues when deciding whether they should move to New Canaan or neighboring communities. We hope that the members of the Town Council support this investment in our Town and its children. Respectfully, Richard Bierman and Norma Canas 52 Old Studio Road
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________________________________________ From: Emily Cannon <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 7:18 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: I support the 12 room expansion at Saxe I cannot attend the town meeting this evening but wanted to share my support in expanding Saxe Middle School. I feel that by not addressing the overcrowding issue properly will open room for potentially needing portable classrooms which could be just as expensive and add additional issues such as safety. We need to plan for the future of New Canaan students and add the additional 12 classrooms now. Thank you, Emily Cannon
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From: Danielle Sieckhaus <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 7:15 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: in support of Option 3A
Dear Town Council Members, We are writing in support of the 12 classroom Option 3A. We believe that the 7 classroom addition would not address the current or growing enrollment needs. We hear that the classes are overcrowded, teachers don’t have offices and closets are used as classrooms. Our eldest son will be attending Saxe in 2016-17 and we will have three other children following him. We owe it to our children and teachers/staff to invest in a larger scale improvement. Thank you very much for your consideration. Danielle and Mike Sieckhaus West School
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From: Maria Weingarten <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 7:14 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Support the 12 room expansion
To the members of the Town Council:
As a former Saxe PTC President and parent at Saxe Middle School, I have seen the growth of the
student population, and encourage you to support the BOE recommended 12 room expansion.
Looking at the Historical Enrollment by Grade report provided by NESDEC, the current and
future enrollment at Saxe is well over the building capacity of 1,200 for the next decade. The
families and town bodies have been told that the elementary schools are at or near capacity for
years and this has resulted in limited redistricting to balance attendance at the three elementary
schools. Those students are now at or soon entering Saxe and the numbers will sustain for the
foreseeable future based on those actual students who are currently enrolled K-8.
As PTC President post the 2007 economic decline, I personally heard from many parents that
attended the "New to the Saxe" events that they had chosen to move their children from private
schools to the public school. If you look at the historical data in the more recent years, the
numbers exiting to private schools 4th-5th grade has declined from 20-30 students to under 10
per year. As the economic uncertainty continues, I do not expect this trend to change.
As a realtor in town, I am closely following the trends in our community. Many of our fellow
Newcomers who moved to town 15+ years ago, have kids that have long since graduated our
district and college. They are now looking to downsize and some are leaving New Canaan
altogether. One could reasonably assume that these properties will at some point be purchased
or possibly rented instead (based on market conditions) by families with younger children,
looking to send their students to our well respected and highly rated school district.
Considering the footprint of the Saxe Building, the proposed site location is the only remaining
space to add an addition without removing playing fields. The two-story, 12 room expansion
would meet the current real needs of students already in district and would be prudent given the
projections. I respectfully ask you to please support renderings for the BOE approved 12 room,
two story addition.
Best regards,
Maria Weingarten
Maria Weingarten William Raveis Real Estate, Mortgage and Insurance 4 Elm Street / New Canaan, CT 06840 (917) 856-5681 Licensed in Connecticut Website Link
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From: Erin Gaudreau <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 5:38 PM To: TCDistribution Cc: chip gaudreau Subject: Saxe Expansion Dear Town Council, I am not sure if I will be able to attend tonights meeting at the Nature Center but my husband and I would like to voice our support of the 12 room expansion of Saxe Middle School. Our oldest child is about to complete her fifth grade year at Saxe and there is a definite need for more space with the current population of the school. I know that in the years to come this population will increase tremendously. To accomodate the children, teachers, staff and administration in a way that supports a positive and productive learning environment this expansion must happen. Trailers and other temporary types of classrooms really are not an option that is acceptable and is only prolonging the inevitable expansion of Saxe that is clearly needed with our growing numbers. I understand that no vote is happening tonight (it is a longer process) but I feel it is important that you all know how important this issue is to us and many other members of our community. New Canaan public schools have an excellent reputation. This expansion will continue to send the strong message of the town's committment to education. Thank you for your time. Erin and Russell Gaudreau 144 Marshall Ridge Road
26
______________________________________ From: Ann Gervase <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 5:46 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Please support the full building project Dear members of the town council, I write to ask for your full support of the proposed Saxe expansion (3a ie 12 classrooms, auditorium etc). As a member of the Saxe PTC board for three school years and an active parent volunteer I am very well aware of the overcrowding issues and continual juggle of space and resources to accommodate a school population that far exceeds the space it was last designed and renovated to hold. As a parent and taxpayer I urge you to embrace this project and approve the funding to do it right from the onset. Anything less than our fullest support of this project will be an expensive bandaid that just kicks part of the problem down the road at further cost to our children, the school district and our town. Respectfully yours, Ann Gervase Ann Gervase 203-912-4125 cell Ann Gervase 203-912-4125 cell Sent from my iPhone
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From: Sara Sharma <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 5:04 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe Building Expansion
Good Afternoon, We are writing today in support of the 12 classroom expansion for Saxe Middle School. As parents of two children who attend East School, we strongly support this option, as it will be in the best educational interests of our children and our town. Thank you, Krishn and Sara Sharma 63 Devonwood Lane
Sara Sharma [email protected]
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From: Jacqueline Dorman <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 4:52 PM To: TCDistribution Cc: Kirsten Arrix; Sybille Campbell; Lisa Sutton; Christine Saxe; Maya Frey; Sheri West; Alison Hamilton; Patricia Mee; Meredith Sullivan; Kim Quinn Subject: Expansion for Saxe
Our family have children in both middle and elementary school in the New Canaan district. We have lived here for 11 years and value our community extremely highly. For those of us who currently have middle schooler children, the overcrowding at Saxe is abundantly clear. Chorus has no room large enough in which to rehearse; band practices are being held in closets and hallways; teachers lounges and work spaces have been eliminated; the halls are packed with supplies and instruments. Most well informed parents know that the current Saxe building was intended for a maximum of roughly 1200 students. Current enrollment is at around 1290 and estimates through 2021 range between 1340-1410. It is our opinion that,
A 12 room addition would meet MOST but not ALL of the programming and enrollment needs at Saxe.
Saxe is currently oversubscribed, and enrollment numbers are rising
A smaller addition (7 rooms only) would not sufficiently address the overcrowding issues
Although we are unable to attend this evening, we wanted the Town Council to know our opinion and take it in to account. Sincerely Mark and Jacqueline Dorman 216 Hawks Hill Road New Canaan CT 06840 USA ph:001 203 594 9399
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From: Lisa Hannich <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 4:35 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe building project
Dear Town Council Members, I are writing in support of the 12 classroom Option 3A. I believe that the 7 classroom addition would not address the current or growing enrollment needs. As a working substitute teacher at Saxe, I can attest that classes are overcrowded, teachers don’t have offices, and closets are used as classrooms. And as a parent of two children at West, I am concerned that these current problems are only likely to increase with time. We owe it to our children and teachers/staff to invest in a larger scale improvement. Thank you for your consideration. Lisa Hannich 128 Seminary St. New Canaan, CT
30
From: Emily Schoonmaker <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 4:22 PM
To: TCDistribution
Subject: Saxe Renovation
We cannot attend the meeting this week at the Nature Center but are strongly in favor of the 12 room
addition at Saxe. The space is much needed for the current student population and the very real
increase of future students predicted. We feel that while adding 7 rooms would provide some relief it
won't address the actual needs of our schools. It seems short sighted. We take pride in New Canaan
school systems. We have access to truly amazing resources and teachers. We would like to see them
reach their full potential.
Thank you for your time.
Emily and Phil Schoonmaker
Sent from my iPhone
31
From: Jeanine Gutauskas <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 3:10 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe Expansion
I am unable to attend the town council meeting this evening but wanted to strongly express my support for Option 3A (which includes auditorium renovation, music classroom expansion, and a 12 classroom addition) in
the Saxe Expansion Plan. As a parent of a child who will be heading to Saxe in 2 years, I think it is critical for the Town Council to think in the long term and plan to perform work that will support our Town for many years to come. I have questioned many Saxe parents about their experience at the school because I have been considering moving before my son enters and although most provide positive feedback about the school, they unanimously told me that the school is busting at the seams and can't support the number of kids entering. This decision made tonight will have a direct impact on my decision to stay in New Canaan or move to a neighboring town such a Wilton, whose schools are just as good and can support the population growth. I hope you all vote for Option 3A as that is the best option for our town. -- Jeanine Gutauskas M: 203.321.6990 Komen Connecticut 2015 Fairfield County Race for the Cure Register TODAY: https://www.crowdrise.com/2015RacefortheCureFFC Run. Walk. Fundraise. Donate. We live here. We Race here. We save lives here.
32
From: Chrissie Schwartz <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 2:34 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Dear Town Council Members, We are writing in support of the 12 classroom Option 3A. We believe that the 7 classroom addition would not address the current or growing enrollment needs. We hear that the classes are overcrowded, teachers don’t have offices and closets are used as classrooms. My oldest son will in Saxe before I even know it- 3 years down the road… and we will have two other children following him. We owe it to our children and teachers/staff to invest in a larger scale improvement. Thank you for your consideration. Chrissie and Brian Schwartz West School
-- Chrissie Schwartz (H) 203.594.1783 (C) 917.449.0348
33
From: Kimberly Markin <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 2:09 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe Building Project
Dear Town Council Members, We are writing in support of the 12 classroom Option 3A. We believe that the 7 classroom addition would not address the current or growing enrollment needs. We hear that the classes are overcrowded, teachers don’t have offices and closets are used as classrooms. Our oldest child will be attending Saxe in 2016-17 and we will have two other children following him. We owe it to our children and teachers/staff to invest in a larger scale improvement to better serve them and our children. Thank you for your consideration. Kim and Todd Markin West School
-- Kimberly J. Markin "It's always nice to be nice" -Papa Carroll
34
From: Lauren Stannard <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 1:31 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Support saxe expansion
Dear Town Council Members, We are writing in support of the 12 classroom Option 3A. We believe that the 7 classroom addition would not address the current or growing enrollment needs. We hear that the classes are overcrowded, teachers don’t have offices and closets are used as classrooms. Thank you The stannard family Sent from my iPhone
35
From: Georgie George <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 1:26 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Same Building Project
Dear Town Council Members,
We are writing in support of the 12 Classroom Option 3A.
Gavin and Georgie George
-- Georgie George 203.216.9803
36
From: Julie Passios <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 1:08 PM
To: TCDistribution
Cc: Julie Passios
Subject: Saxe Building Project
Dear Town Council Members,
We are writing in support of the 12 classroom Option 3A. We believe that the 7 classroom addition
would not address the current or growing enrollment needs. We hear that the classes are overcrowded,
teachers don’t have offices and closets are used as classrooms.
Our eldest son will be attending Saxe in 2016-17 and we will have two other children following him. We
owe it to our children and teachers/staff to invest in a larger scale improvement.
Thank you for your consideration.
Julie and Kimon Passios
West School
37
From: Morawa, Matthew E. (GE Capital) <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 12:13 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Support for Option 3A of Saxe Building Project
To Whom it may concern on NC Town Council- I fully support Option 3A /building of 12 additional class rooms at Saxe as the right choice for New Canaan and for our school systems. My family moved to New Canaan 5 years ago for the quality of the schools, and this is the best plan to ensure that quality is maintained relative to our peer communities. The quality schools are what maintain the real estate values, attract young families and drive the economy of the town and should be a top priority for all spending decisions. Regards, Matthew E. Morawa Managing Director GE Capital Healthcare Financial Services (O) (203) 229-5891 (M) (917) 817-0636 [email protected]
38
From: Kendall Sneddon <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 11:54 AM To: TCDistribution Subject: In support of the 12 room expansion
Town Council,
My children attend Saxe and I am in support of creating the larger 12 room expansion to support
our children's education needs.
Thank you,
Kendall Sneddon
-- Kendall Sneddon Principal/Sneddon Team Chairman's Council Producer's Council 183 Elm Street , New Canaan , CT 06840
Mobile : (203) 561-5658
Email: [email protected] Halstead Connecticut LLC Licensed in Connecticut
39
From: Nicholas Sadler <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 11:33 AM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe Building Project
Thank you for the opportunity for our family to share our opinion regarding the Saxe Building Project. We strongly support the 12 classroom expansion. We have a child that will be entering Saxe in the 2016-2017 school year. We want to make sure that he and all the children in our town have the space and support they need to learn. They deserve an environment that builds upon the amazing work the teachers and leadership at East have accomplished. We moved to New Canaan for the schools and family focused community. If the town does not support the students and their teachers, we will sadly be forced to look elsewhere to educate and raise our child. Very Best, Nick Sadler
40
________________________________________
From: Jaime Sneddon <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 11:29 AM
To: TCDistribution
Subject: 12 Room Addition at Saxe
My kids both attend Saxe and I fully support the 12 Room Addition vs. the 7.
Regards,
Jaime Sneddon
Principal – Sneddon Team
Chairman's Council
Halstead Property
183 Elm Street
New Canaan, CT 06840
Cell: (203) 219-3769
Fax: (203) 391-5710
Email: [email protected]<mailto:[email protected]>
Licensed in CT
Halstead Connecticut, LLC
41
From: Laurel Howe <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 10:18 AM To: TCDistribution; Board of Finance Cc: Robert Howe; Laurel Howe Subject: Approve 12 Classrooms PLEASE!!!
Dear Town Council and Board of Finance, Please approve the recommended 12 classroom expansion. This is a necessity, not a "nice to have." As a parent of a child in the largest class at Saxe ever, I know first hand how desperately this is needed! I have an incoming 5th grader whose class is even bigger! We need this now and for future classes, which continue to grow. We moved to the wonderful Town of New Canaan to raise our family where the grass is green, people are intelligent, and the schools are top notch! We didn't realize the overcrowding issue and the severe impact of having "just a few more kids" in each class because of space constraints. Well that "few more" is 4-6 children, which equals a 25-30% increase in class size, which makes an enormous and very noticeable difference in both teaching and learning! We've seen friends leave the NCPS for St. Luke's and other private schools because they just couldn't take it anymore. We've all seen New Canaan drop down on the school rankings. This must be stopped - our children are worth it!! Please approve the Board of Ed's recommendation. Respectfully and with much appreciation for your service to our great town, Robert and Laurel Howe 357 Frogtown Lane New Canaan, CT 06840
Laurel Howe [email protected] Sent from my iPhone
42
________________________________________
From: Roy Abramowitz <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 10:04 AM
To: TCDistribution
Cc: Greg Reilly
Subject: Saxe
To all: we have reached a point where our town taxes are the highest in Fairfield County. This year's
increase was artificially low because it is an election year. When I ran for office incumbents made
unsubstantiated predictions that our then $120 million in bonded debt would decrease. I challenged the
falsity of the variables but no one listened. We are now looking at approximately $ 155 M in bonded
debt and counting. With the required road maintenance, infrastructure costs with the Locust Project,
Milligan Hearing legal fees and wasted OT, this Saxe Project combined with the Locust project will push
our Town taxes over the edge. The tax rate and assessed value also applies to the auto tax. It is not only
the mill rate but assessed value. Our assessed values are higher than other towns. The economy is
herendous. Believe me I am there. Exports and Shipbrokerage businesses are closing, Wall Street is
cutting salaries and laying off. The brokerage commission business is over. Businesses are contracting,
the real unemployment rate is over 15%.
Where do you think you will get the funds to service the Town's debt? Real estate sales are dismal and
the median price of a home is down $235,000 from Q1 2014 in New Canaan.
You are an elected official and have a fiduciary responsibility to the electorate. You can be held
responsible for reckless spending. Please put the rubber stamp away.
This need, need, need mentality will be disasterous.
Thank you
Roy Abramowitz
43
From: Janet Fonss <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 9:23 AM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe Expansion - Please approve 12 classrooms!
Dear Town Council members, Please vote in favor of the 12 classroom Saxe Middle School expansion. Saxe is severely overcrowded and this is negatively impacting classroom instruction, school climate and programming. The 7 classroom expansion is not adequate. Our kids deserve appropriate size classrooms and our parents (your electorate) are in favor of this expansion. I've attended the last few Board of Finance meetings. The Town can afford the additional tax burden and financing rates are very favorable. I understand the Board of Finance and Town Council have concerns, primarily over expansion and debt service.
Over expansion - The Saxe Building Committee has stated the expansion would be full utilized on the day it opens. Even if enrollment falls off after 2020, the "extra" classrooms will be fully utilized for programs. The 12 classroom expansion meets most, but not all of the school's needs. There is no danger of overbuilding.
Debt Service - The BOF said in the last meeting that debt is rolling off and the town can afford servicing this additional debt. It makes no sense to build a 2nd floor "shell" that will cost the town more to finish later. The estimated yearly tax burden difference between the 12 classroom vs. the 7 classroom expansion to each household is $30. That's a a 1/2 bag of groceries for many households here in New Canaan.
Time is of the essence to get this addition built on time and I believe the Saxe Building Committee, school officials and BOE have all done their proper due diligence in in moving this forward in an intelligent and thoughtful manner. Our school system is inarguably our town's greatest asset and worth the investment. It is the primary reason people choose to live here. If there are hard choices to be made, please vote in favor of our school system. We need to make the necessary investment NOW to protect the future for our kids and for this great town. Very respectfully yours, Janet Leung Fonss 253 Turtle Back Road New Canaan, Connecticut
44
From: Kelly DeFrancesco <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 9:15 AM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe Project
Dear Town Council,
I strongly support option 3a which I feel would best fit the needs of the long term future at Saxe. Being a realtor in town, a majority of buyers come to New Canaan for the excellent school system and not moving forward with the best option could hurt New Canaan in the long run. Please do what is right for Saxe and the future of New Canaan.
Best, Kelly DeFrancesco Kelly DeFrancesco Chairman’s Club ~ Exceptional Property Specialist ~ Certified Home Professional William Raveis Real Estate ~ 4 Elm St ~ New Canaan, Ct. 06840 Phone: (203) 667-4074 Fax: (203) 653-5681 Email: [email protected] Website: www.KellyDeFrancescoRealEstate.com Licensed in Connecticut
45
From: Hobbs,Ian <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 8:17 AM To: TCDistribution Subject: Support for 12 room addition at Saxe
Dear Town Council, I was recently speaking with a commercial realtor in Stamford and the topic of the state budget and how unfriendly the State of Connecticut has become to businesses came up. I asked him why any company stays in Connecticut. I found his response interesting. He said that any company that moves to a more business friendly state like Florida, North Carolina, or Texas will lose a lot of their 40 and 50 year old employees because they want to stay in this area while their children are in their school age years. Other areas of the country can’t compete with our school system. Top flight education is our best resource to keep existing residents and attract new ones. And the physical plant of Saxe is the gateway to town and sends the message to all prospective residents that New Canaan takes their school system seriously. I ask you to vote in support of the 12 room addition at Saxe, it is important for the students and important for our property values. Thank you, Ian Hobbs Ian Hobbs Hobbs, Incorporated 27 Grove Street New Canaan, Connecticut 06840 203-966-6006 Ext. 223
46
From: Ippolito, Paul <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 7:53 AM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe
Good morning I am in favor of the 12 classroom addition as an option for expansion. In the long run it will be cost effective and less disruptive. Please consider. Thank you Paul Ippolito Paul Ippolito Executive Vice President
Newmark Grubb Knight Frank Global Corporate Services 125 Park Avenue New York, NY 10017
T 212.372.2360 [email protected]
Save a Tree - Think Before You Print. Sustainably Newmark Grubb Knight Frank.
47
From: [email protected] <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 7:08 AM To: TCDistribution Subject: Vote for Saxe option 3A
I'm writing to urge the Town Council to vote for funding the 12-classroom option at Saxe: The quality of New Canaan's public schools is the backbone of our town. If we are shortsighted now about our classroom needs in the future, this could result in overcrowding, the inability to offer programs simply because of a lack of space all of which could potentially affect our children's educational experience. The trickle-down affect of overcrowding will cause people to question their decision to move to New Canaan driving people to put their children in private schools (which is already happening), deciding to move away from the town or deciding not to move into New Canaan in the first place. Issues of any kind with our public schools affect property values for the entire town, not just those citizens with school-aged children. Lastly, the yearly incremental cost to tax-payers of the 7 vs. 12-classroom option is negligible given the long-term, positive outcome of having the extra classroom space. Thank you for your consideration. Stacy Murphy
48
From: Kristin Barnard <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 6:43 AM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe - Please support the 12 room expansion project
Hello,
My name is Kristin Barnard. I have a rising 2nd grader, a rising 4th
grader and a rising 6th grader. I have read the enrollment projections
and I respectfully ask the Town Council to fully support a 12 room
expansion.
Overcrowded schools is not a new issue in New Canaan. Over the past
20+ years changes have been made to accommodate the growing
number of children in our community. First it was moving 6th grade to
Saxe. Then we moved the 5th grade to Saxe. We have redistricted our
Elementary Schools on two separate occasions. The enrollment
projections suggest that by 2020 there will be over 1400 children
attending Saxe Middle School.
Saxe was originally designed to hold 1,200 students. Saxe currently has
1,297 students. Saxe is is projected to grow to over 1,400 students by
2020. These children are already in our Elementary Schools - they are
already in our school system. The 12 room expansion will allow New
Canaan Public Schools to properly house its growing number of middle
school age students.
I am asking for your support as a resident and as a parent, because I
believe that a strong school system is a key element of our community.
Thank you for your consideration,
Kristin Barnard
49
From: Janee <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 11:12 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe Addition
As a New Canaan resident, I request that you vote for the 12 room Saxe expansion. I believe decision this is essential to our town's future both in terms of properly educating our residents' children and in terms of retaining property values.
Saxe currently is over-crowded to the point that it is an embarrassment to our town. The fact that it is anticipated to get worse is horrifying. Children are crammed into undersized classrooms like sardines and the hall ways are over-crowded. Four fifth grade classrooms are now on the "sixth grade" hall where my 10 year old fifth grade daughter has been exposed to unacceptable language and behavior by the 12 year olds in the rooms next to her locker. Her band rehearsals take place in the hall and her art class has met in a variety of rooms.
As you are aware, the quality of our schools is a major, if not THE major, reason most people choose to live in New Canaan. Within five years, the school will not be able to contain the anticipated enrollment and 5 to 8 portable classrooms will need to be used. Having trailers located on the main entry route into town will not give a positive impression of New Canaan to potential new residents nor is it an excusable way to educate our children in a town of New Canaan's wealth.
The only other option would be to move the fifth grade back to the elementary schools which is where those children should be. This would require construction at all three elementary schools, however, or the building of another elementary school (maybe North?) I suspect the Saxe renovation is less cost prohibitive than moving the fifth grade and building a new elementary school.
Failure to vote for the 12 room expansion would be a disservice to our children and will adversely affect the property values in New Canaan. Please vote for the larger expansion project!
Thank you,
Janee Hunter
70 Bennington Place
New Canaan, CT
50
________________________________________
From: Traci Pascarella <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 10:43 PM
To: TCDistribution
Subject: Saxe renovation
Dear Sir or Madam,
Please consider the proposal for a 12 classroom addition at Saxe Middle
School. Saxe is becoming
overcrowded, and statistics do not show a downsizing anytime too soon.
This is an opportunity to better the student/teacher ratio, supporting Saxe in school rankings.
Thank you for your consideration.
Best regards,
Traci Pascarella
(South School parent)
Sent from my iPhone
51
_______________________________________
From: Timothy Bossin <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 10:43 PM
To: TCDistribution
Subject: Saxe Expansion
Town Counsel Members,
Regarding the proposed Saxe Middle School expansion, I am writing this note in an effort to show
support for proposal 3A(12 classroom option). With future enrollment projections in mind and safety
and security concerns regarding overcrowding at Saxe currently, it seems clear that allocating funds
properly now, will improve with student/ teacher ratios, remedy crowding/safety concerns and create
space for future expansion of student body and faculty. Spend funds properly now, with a clear vision to
the future and avoid having to revisit this in 10 to 15 years. Thank you for your time.
Regards,
Tim Bossin
Center School 82
Saxe Jr High 84
NCHS 88
Timothy Bossin
New England Yacht Care
30 Sunrise Ave
New Canaan, CT 06840
203-249-9683
52
From: Katie Owsley <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 10:38 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Same Building Renovations
Dear Town Council members, Thank you all for the countless hours you devote to the town - your dedication is greatly appreciated. In advance of tonight's discussion of the the Saxe Building Renovation, I wanted to express my support for the 12 room addition. Having served on the Enrollment and Capacity Study Group, and having a child (soon to be two children) at Saxe, I can attest to the school's overcrowding and it's impact upon the education and attention our kids receive. Apart from the tangible physical realities - kids rehearsing in closets, storage in the hallways, excessive student traffic through the hallways, lunch room lines that make buying lunch an impossibility - one of the more subtle costs is the amount of time that Greg Macedo and others have to dedicate to the machinations of maneuvering 1300 kids throughout a space never intended to hold that many. As a thrifty New Englander, I am never a fan of spending money recklessly. However, the incremental cost of doing a 12 versus 7 room addition to Saxe is money well spent. Consider the fact that a 7 room addition would in no way alleviate all or even most of the spatial pressure at Saxe, and would likely require a secondary solution in the near future. Portables are unsightly, expensive and wreak havoc upon a school's operations. I ask that you consider the clear need for more space, as well as the future cost of not pursuing the 12 room expansion, as you opine on the Saxe Renovation Project. Regards, Katie Owsley
53
________________________________________
From: Krista Tully <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 10:34 PM
To: TCDistribution
Subject: Support for 12 - classroom option 3A
To whom it may concern:
I am strongly in support of the 12-classroom option 3A. A 7-classroom addition would not address the
growing enrollment needs, and we will find ourselves in a similar position in a very short time. The
schools are the heart of our town and we MUST continue to invest in them on a proactive basis. Thank
you for your consideration.
Best,
Krista Tully
Sent from my iPad
54
From: Michelle Orr <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 10:10 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Support of addition of 12 rooms at SAXE
I am currently out of town and cannot attend the meeting to show my support for option 3A with regards to an expansion at Saxe. Frankly, I have been disappointed with how the school has handled the current 6th grade class with regards to its size. I have been hearing about this issue at meetings since he was in 3rd grade and even with ample time to prepare each year for the size of this particular grade, I give the BOE a D+ at best in the way they have handled this particular class. With 13 grades, I can see statistically if you get one wrong, you can feel good about your job, but when your child is in that grade, the consequences are long lasting. The further increase in the projection of students coming down the pipe is equally as dismal. A few issues with the school as it stands: Chorus has no room large enough in which to rehearse, band practices are being held in closets and hallways, teachers lounges and workspaces have been eliminated, the halls are packed with supplies and instruments. My son's teachers have said to me, and this is a direct quote, "how can I be expected to correct the children's homework when I have 90 students?" I support option 3a because
A 12 room addition would meet MOST not ALL of the programming and enrollment needs at Saxe.
Saxe is currently oversubscribed, and enrollment numbers are rising
A smaller addition (7 rooms only) would not sufficiently address the overcrowding issues
Other towns have in the area have had to resort to the use of temporary portable classrooms...(think trailers parked on the lawn). These are surprisingly expensive, and present a host of problems for schools (security, movement of students, etc.). Not spending money now of the proper expansion means we will be forced to spend it later on substandard stopgaps.
Please do what is right for our school, which ultimately is best for all residents of our town, choose option 3a. Fund our schools properly. Thank you. Michelle "To laugh is to live profoundly."-- Milan Kundera
55
From: Ted Sihpol <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 9:43 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe 12 Room Option
All-
I am writing to ask that you support the proposed 12 room addition at Saxe Middle School.
I am a parent of current 7th & 3rd grade students and a Contractor by trade, I fully understand
the need for fiscal constraint. I also understand the greater danger of funding and launching a
project that is undersized and inadequate from its inception. In reviewing the options at hand I
hope that you all would agree that adopting the 12 room option is the most logical and fiscally
prudent choice when we consider the long term goals of our Town and schools.
Thank you for your time, consideration and service to our Town.
Best regards,
Ted
-- Ted Sihpol Managing Partner Renaissance Partners, LLC A Building & Renovation Company c: 203.313.4749 www.builditright.biz http://Renaissancect.houzz.com CT HIC Lic #0609880
56
From: Jennifer Crowley <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 9:43 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe expansion
To whom it may concern,
I am the mother of a rising 4th grader and 3rd grader at West. I am in FULL support of the 12 room expansion - 3A.
A 12 room addition would meet MOST not ALL of the programming and enrollment needs
at Saxe.
Saxe is currently oversubscribed and enrollment numbers are rising
A smaller addition (7 rooms only) would not sufficiently address the overcrowding issues
We, as a community and school system, need to prepare and be ahead of the curve not
behind it.
If we want our children to excel, then we need to provide the best opportunity for them
and that means a longterm resolution
Thank you, Jennifer Crowley
121 Kimberly Place
New Canaan, CT
57
From: [email protected] <[email protected]> on behalf of Christen Garcia <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 9:44 AM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe Expansion Plan Support
Dear Town Council Members,
I am writing to you today in support of the proposed "3A" Saxe renovation/architect funding
plan that is to be voted on tomorrow.
I am a fourteen year resident of New Canaan and the mother of four young children, three of
whom are currently enrolled in the New Canaan Public Schools. I have one child at Saxe Middle
School, two children at West School, one child who will enter Kindergarten at West School this
coming fall. I am committed to making my children's education the best that it can be, as well
as supporting New Canaan's excellent educational standards and reputation. I believe that
approval of the "3A" option will facilitate our high educational standards and benefit our
children and the residents of New Canaan for years to come.
Thank you for your consideration. Please feel free to contact me with questions or concerns.
Very best,
Christen Garcia
203.972.0568
58
________________________________________
From: Debbie Raymond <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 11:48 AM
To: TCDistribution
Subject: Saxe building
As parents of a child who will be attending Saxe in two years, we fully support the
recommendation of the BOE in expanding the school. Frankly, we feel the recommendation is
minimal and doesn't address enough of the overcrowding. But, it is a good start,
Kind regards,
Debbie and Doug Raymond
16 Gray Squirrel Drive
59
From: McKiernan, Terri <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 11:51 AM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe Building Project
I am writing to request that serious consideration be given to the Saxe Building Project and getting the number of classrooms correct. I would hate for New Canaan to be short sited and go for the cheaper option and find ourselves in the same position in 5-10 years but with no options. Based on recent studies and projection, Saxe needs a minimum of 12 classroom addition. Many of us choose New Canaan for the school and family life. Please do not overlook what drew us all here. Thank you Terri C. McKiernan Vice President Global Operations Business Manager 2200 Atlantic Street, Suite 800 Stamford, CT 06902 Office (203) 564-8550 Mobile (203) 919-5035 [email protected] www.cci.com
60
From: Garrett Baker <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 11:58 AM To: TCDistribution Cc: 'Melissa C Baker ([email protected])' Subject: Saxe Building Project We cannot attend the Town Council meeting on July 17th, but wanted to make known that we fully support Option 3A. We believe this addition is in the best interest of the entire town and its children. Please contact us if we can be helpful in any way. Garrett & Melissa Baker 439 Brookside Rd New Canaan 917-714-7426 Garrett M. Baker President Waller Capital Partners www.wallercapital.com One Rockefeller Plaza, 23rd Floor New York, NY 10020 212-632-3600 [email protected]
61
________________________________________
From: Sabrina Matthews <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 11:59 AM
To: TCDistribution
Subject: Saxe expansion
Dear committee,
My family and I fully support the expansion of Saxe. We are sending our 4th grader from west
next year and have 2 more children who will hopefully be following her lead.
The overcrowding of the school is very noticeable and will only continue to create more
problems as the years go by.
Clearly new Canaan is a very desirable town to live in and send your children to school. In my
mind, there is no other option but to expand.
I have a conflict and am unable to attend the meeting tonight or Tommorow night. (Working on
being their Tommorow night) but I am 100% supportive of this proposal!
(The 12 classroom one).
sincerely
the Matthews family
Sent from my iPhone
62
From: Abby Dunkin <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 12:46 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe Renovation - maximum number of classroom expansion please
To Whom It May Concern: I vote to please expand Saxe to the maximum number of classrooms. The current situation is not sustainable and a smaller renovation will not be helpful long term. Thank you, Abby Dunkin 25 Meadow Lane New Canaan
63
________________________________________
From: Kathryn McManus <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 1:13 PM
To: TCDistribution
Subject: Hello and quick thoughts regrading Saxe
Hello,
We just moved to New Canaan in January from AZ, and I wanted to share some thoughts
regarding Saxe. This past fall my job asked if I would be willing to relocate from AZ to the
Greater New York Area. As a family the most important consideration was the school system
for our daughter (now a 3rd grader at South School), quality of life, and commute. Having
grown up in Amherst, MA education was foremost on our list. We plan on settling in New
Canaan and the taxes we will pay over our lifetime will contribute to the educational system and
community. By approving the additions New Canaan has the opportunity to obviously make a
big difference in the learning environment of our children. Additionally the town can market the
renovation encouraging additional tax paying families to move to our community based on the
quality of education.
Love the town, and thanks for providing an outlet for feedback.
Kathryn McManus
64
From: Niki Morton <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 12:22 PM To: TCDistribution; Board of Finance Subject: Saxe renovation
To whom it may concern,
I've lived in New Canaan for the better part of the past 32 years. I myself went through Saxe
Middle School & graduated from NCHS in 1989.
We are so proud to be able to live in New Canaan and watch as our (4) children work their way
through the NCPS.
Next year we will have two children at Saxe (8th & 5th grade).
We fully support the efforts to expand Saxe. We are hopeful that the option for a 12-room
addition will be voted on as this is the only option that will meet MOST of the programming and
enrollment needs at Saxe.
Best,
The Morton Family
Niki M. Morton
203.921.5190
Sent from my iPhone
65
From: Pete Garrison <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 1:23 PM To: TCDistribution Subject:
To Whom it May Concern : As a 30+ year resident of New Canaan , It’s my intent to vote for the maximum number of classrooms in the Saxe renovation – Pete Garrison Pete Garrison
Managing Director
Direct: +1 203.625.5186
Fax: +1 203.629.1229
Greenwich Associates
6 High Ridge Park
Stamford, CT 06905 US
www.greenwich.com
66
From: [email protected] <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 1:47 PM To: Board of Finance; TCDistribution; Mallozzi, Robert Subject: Fact and Fiction
I watch the BOF meeting and heard Penny Rashin say again "the enrollment has increased at Saxe " -- was anyone listening if so why did you not correct Her?
Again Saxe was -25 students -- do you need documentations if so I will be more then pleased to supply.
Richard P Vachula
67
________________________________________
From: [email protected] <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 3:51 PM
To: TCDistribution
Subject: Please expand Saxe Middle School!
Thank you, we want school expanded!
Jenny Altieri
68
From: Meredith Lincoln <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 7:50 PM To: TCDistribution; Board of Finance Subject: Saxe Construction Project -- Please vote "YES" for the 12 classrooms, music and auditorium building projects
To the New Canaan Town Council and the Board of Finance,
I am writing to encourage you to please vote in favor of funding for the 12 classrooms, music
and auditorium building projects for Saxe.
My family moved from NYC two years ago and the greatest selling point of New Canaan was
the excellent schools. As a parent with a special needs child, my hopes for his education have far
exceeded my expectations over the last two years.
My child has flourished under the special needs programs at West. However, I am concerned
that at Saxe he will not receive as quality of an education as he does at West given the space
limitations currently affecting the special needs children. This project is critical for ensuring that
all students including special needs students get the classrooms they deserve.
Please vote in favor of the project tomorrow night.
Sincerely,
Meredith Petitjean
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From: tracy <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 9:24 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: VOTE - Supporting the 12 room expansion
Our family adamantly supports the 12 room expansion at Saxe Middle School to accommodate the academic needs of our children and the growing population. Please consider this our vote advocating for the 12 room expansion . Unfortunately, we are unable to attend the meeting on June 18 at 7:30. Thank you, The Growney Family Tracy & Kevin Cooper (11yrs old – Saxe 5th grade) Tucker (9 yrs old – West School 3rd grade)
70
From: Michelle Kanter <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 9:33 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: We need 12 additional classrooms at Saxe!
Dear Town Council Members, I have a sixth grader at Saxe and am very familiar with overcrowding issue. We moved to New Canaan from a neighboring town six years ago. We have been pleased with the schools to date but the lack of space at the middle school must be dealt with sufficiently. I believe a 12 room addition is necessary to address the current issue as well as the estimated rising enrollment. Thank you for your consideration and for investing in the reason we moved to this town — the school system. Sincerely, Michelle Kanter Bramwit
71
From: Meghan McDonough <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 9:33 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: SAXE building project
Hello,
I am writing in support of the current proposed 12-room expansion for the SAXE building
project. We will have 4 kids go through the school and are in full support of the larger expansion
project.
Kind Regards,
Meghan McDonough
741 Carter St
203-594-9209
72
From: Virginia Robinson <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 9:38 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe Addition
Please consider our family's preference for option 3A - adding 12 classrooms to Saxe. We feel it is important to get it right while we are adding on and planning for increased enrollment in the coming years. Thank you! The Robinson Family 1277 Smith Ridge Road New Canaan, CT 06840
73
From: Lisa Platt <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 9:08 AM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe Expansion Project
Dear Town Council:
At your June 17th meeting, you will be discussing the drawings for the Saxe renovation. I am sorry that I cannot
attend in person but if possible would like you to read my email at the meeting.
I respectfully ask the Town Council to fully support a 12 room expansion. Saxe was originally designed to hold
1,200 students. Saxe currently has 1,297 students and is projected to grow to over 1,400 students in the next 6
years. The 12 room expansion will help Saxe to properly house its growing number of students.
The overcrowding of New Canaan's public schools is not a new issue - it is just one that has come to the breaking
point. Ever since Center School was closed in 1983, New Canaan has been finding ways to handle the number of
students. First it was moving 6th grade to Saxe, then it was moving 5th grade to Saxe, then it was redistricting the
elementary schools on two separate occasions. The options at this point are expanding Saxe or building a 4th
elementary school and bringing the 5th grade back. The 12 room Saxe option will be much less costly and much
less disruptive.
Please know that, although I have a rising 5th grader and a 7th grader, I will have a maximum benefit of two years
from this project. I am asking for your support as a resident, not as a parent, because I believe that a strong school
system is a key element of our community.
I greatly appreciate your consideration in this matter. Thank you very much.
Lisa Platt
11 Horton Lane
New Canaan, CT 06840
(203) 966-1993 H
(203) 644-4205 M
74
________________________________________
From: Josh cooney <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 9:00 AM
To: TCDistribution
Subject: Saxe expansion
I cannot be at the meeting tonight but support the full 12 room expansion plan.
Thanks
Josh Cooney
75
From: Charlie Whinery <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 8:14 AM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe Building Project - support for the 12 classroom proposal
To Whom It May Concern: I will not be able to attend the public meeting on the night of 6/17/15, but I want to express my support for the plan to add 12 classrooms to Saxe Middle School. My children are still years away from attending Saxe (my first begins at South this fall), but my understanding is that some expansion is necessary in the immediate term. Further, my understanding is that the alternative proposal is to add only 7 classrooms which seems like a “Band-Aid” approach that will certainly result in further classroom additions over the next couple years (given rising enrollment trends and current capacity problems). As a result it seems obvious that addressing the issue now is preferable (and ultimately lower cost and less disruptive) than taking what will certainly be a phased approach if only 7 classrooms are added in the near-term. Again, from my family’s perspective adding 12 classrooms now is the preferred approach. Best regards, Charlie Charles Whinery 17 Woodland Rd.
76
________________________________________
From: Rich Riley <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 8:01 AM
To: TCDistribution
Cc: Michelle Riley
Subject: Saxe Renovations
Dear Committee - As a New Canaan resident with 2 children at Saxe and
2 at South I fully support the proposed full renovation of Saxe. We
have had a great experience at Saxe, but it is viewed by many as the
weak link in the NC Schools and I think proper renovations could be
hugely helpful and a great investment in our community.
Best Regards,
Rich
Rich Riley
CEO
Shazam
52 Vanderbilt
New York, NY 10017
(203) 585-7463
77
________________________________________
From: Barbara Wills <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 7:54 AM
To: TCDistribution
Subject: New Classrooms at Saxe
We are unable to make the meeting but wanted to share our experiences. We have lived in several
different districts during the school career of our children. The buildings need to have enough room to
be flexible with the fluctuations in enrollment. Class size has a direct effect on the learning potential of
the students in them. Please grant the maximum number of classrooms that the plan will allow. They
will never go unused.
Barbara Wills
Parent of 10th, 8th, and 4th grade
78
________________________________________
From: Anne Waldron <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, June 16, 2015 6:39 AM
To: TCDistribution
Subject: We support
We fully support the 12-Classroom expansion project at Saxe Middle School.
Cheers,
Anne and John Waldron
45 Butler Lane
New Canaan.
Cell: (203)249-3251
79
From: Stephanie Kushner <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 15, 2015 6:09 PM To: TCDistribution Subject: Saxe Building Project
To Town Council Members: Thank you for everything you do for New Canaan. I know you make every decision with the best interests of the town in consideration so, I encourage you to approve the 12 classroom version of the building project at Saxe. I no longer have any students at Saxe but feel that the long running over crowding will begin to affect programing and performance which will negatively impact our Property Values. Parking and Town Hall offices are really nice, but people aren’t moving (or not moving) to NC because of these projects. Please fully support the Saxe project. Thank you. Stephanie Kushner
80
From: Jennifer Essigs <[email protected]> Sent: Monday, June 15, 2015 12:50 PM To: Town Council; TCDistribution Cc: Stephanie Kushner; Kristen O'Connor ([email protected]) Subject: Saxe building project
Hi, Thank you for your hours of service on the New Canaan Town Council. I encourage you to approve the 12 classroom version of the building project at Saxe. The students already need the space in Saxe and more students are expected. If we’re going to add classrooms, let’s do it right the first time. I don’t have students at Saxe any longer so my children won’t have direct benefit from the addition, but I know it will improve the educational environment as Saxe which in the end will help our entire community. Regards, Jennifer Essigs 66 Nursery Road New Canaan, CT 06840 [email protected] (203) 966-3981 | Home (203) 219-3165 | Mobile
81
From: [email protected] <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, June 10, 2015 3:13 PM To: TCDistribution; Board of Finance; Mallozzi, Robert Subject: Who pushed Saxe School to it limits
Saxe Middle School enrollment
1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 676 669 703 804 1170 1256 1256 1295 1280 1281
The jump from 703 in 1999 to 1,170 in 2001 was + 494
2001 1,170 to 1,256 in 2002 + 86 could be due to 9/11 families
moving out of NY City -- Paul Simon was one of them
But the + 370 from 2000 804 students to 1,170 did not make sense
I remember that someone on the BOE said we could move a grade back to the elementary School -- but was quickly dismissed
So why the + 370 --
from the BOE web site -- History Of Saxe
After the move to the new HS it says
Originally, Saxe was designated as a junior high school for students in grades 7 and 8
The School was reorganized in 1983 to include grade 6 and has moved over the years to implement a middle school philosophy in educating its students.
In 1995, Saxe Middle School was converted to a grade 5-7 middle school to accommodate the growing enrollment needs of the New Canaan Public Schools.
In 2000, the eight grade program was Reinstated at the Saxe Middle School thus creating a grade 5-8 middle school
So who created this need for space the 370 students that were added to Saxe were from were the 8 grade -- not from the Birth rate
82
Move ins The BOE is the one who pushed the schools to it limits
How must empty space is there in East, West and South
So if they sent the 5 grade back to elementary for say 4 yrs then they would not need temp class rooms or a 11 million
addition -- plus they would get their Teacher space back
5 grade is 123 students in each school
East peaked in 2003 with 617 students Now 565
South peaked in 2006 with 717 students now 554
west peaked in 2006 with 617 students now 531
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
peaked 1,951 now 1,650 2013 numbers
So their are many more option then just building a 22,000 sq. ft addition
with a cost of 11 million to the town
Richard P Vachula
83
From: Darleen Ferraro <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2015 5:49 PM To: TCDistribution; Board.Finance Subject: support for the 12 room expansion
Dear Board of Finance and Town Council,
I understand that there is a Board of Finance meeting tonight and a Town Council meeting on June 17th and during
those meetings you will be discussing the drawings for the Saxe renovation. I respectfully ask you to support a 12
room expansion and obtain drawings for such. Saxe was originally designed to hold 1,200 students. Saxe
currently has 1,297 students and is projected to grow to over 1,400 students in the next 6 years. The 12 room
expansion will help Saxe to properly house its growing number of students.
As a parent and also a schoolteacher, I can thoroughly understand the need for the right “amount” of space and not
just a quick fix for the short-term. We moved to New Canaan from a neighboring town five years ago because of
the school system and more importantly because of the community and their support of the school system as a
whole.
Please choose the 12 room expansion. Thank you for your time.
Darleen Ferraro 62 Beech Road New Canaan, CT 06840
84
From: Jennifer Moon Kozlowski <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2015 5:41 PM To: TCDistribution; Board.Finance Subject: SAXE EXPANSION
Board of Finance and Town Council Members
With Saxe Middle School projected to grow to over 1400 students over the next 6 years, I urge you to support a 12
room expansion and request drawings for such during this evening's Board of Finance (and the Town Council
meeting on June 17th).
The 12 room expansion will allow Saxe to properly house its growing number of students. Proper planning will
ensure that our schools are well-prepared to meet the future needs of our community as well as maintain our
property values.
I appreciate your consideration in this matter.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Moon Kozlowski
559 Oenoke Ridge Road
New Canaan, CT 06840
203-524-4144
85
From: Wendy Werneburg <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2015 4:49 PM To: Board.Finance; TCDistribution Subject: Saxe Expansion
Dear Board of Finance and Town Council,
Unfortunately, we cannot attend the Board of Finance meeting tonight, but realize this meeting is very important
regarding the possibility of expansion at Saxe. We currently have one son who attends 5th grade and have a rising
4th grader. Class numbers are already on the high side. With the school population numbers expected to grow
tremendously over the next few years, such an expansion is absolutely needed. New Canaan has a stellar reputation
as a town and this includes an exemplary school district. We need to continue in that manner and such an expansion
will do just that in the way of what New Canaan has to offer within their school system.
Please take careful consideration of this situation in our town. We appreciate your time and effort in this matter.
Thanks!
Best,
Wendy & Scott Werneburg
Wendy Werneburg Realtor William Raveis Real Estate Four Elm Street, New Canaan, CT 06840 203.536.2210 [email protected] wendywerneburg.raveis.com Licensed in CT
86
From: Nicole Busby <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2015 4:13 PM To: TCDistribution; Board.Finance Subject: Vote tonight
Board of Finance & Town Council, I have three children in the New Canaan Public School system and am requesting that you vote for the 12-room expansion at Saxe. The fact that our classrooms are overcrowded to the point where some classes are being held in the vestibules is unacceptable. Let's get the renovation right the first time around in order to avoid a potentially more costly renovation down the road. Thank you so much for your consideration. Best, Nicole Busby
87
From: Clare Caione <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2015 3:47 PM To: TCDistribution; Board.Finance Subject: Saxe Middle School Project
Dear Board of Finance and Town Council,
I am aware that the Board of Finance will be meeting this evening and the Town Council will hold a meeting on
June 17th to discuss the drawings for the renovation of Saxe Middle School. I fully support the 12 room expansion
plan and would hope that we are able to start the process of obtaining drawings for this option. It is my
understanding that Saxe is already over capacity and the population that is currently in the elementary schools will
cause the school to be over capacity by over 200 students in the near future.
We lived through a year of South School being stretched to its limits. It detracts from the educational process to
have an overcrowded school. The redistribution of students was very helpful for South. Saxe Middle School has
not where to put additional students. The school needs to be enlarged.
The school system is the core foundation of a community. It is what brings new families to New Canaan and
ultimately supports the town. All individuals in a town benefit from a strong school system whether they have
students in the system or not.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.
Best,
Greg and Clare Caione
155 White Birch Road
New Canaan, CT
88
________________________________________
From: Darleen Ferraro <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, June 8, 2015 9:25 PM
To: Board of Finance; TCDistribution
Subject: my opinion
It is in my opinion to support the 12+ classroom expansion at Saxe.
Darleen Ferraro
Sorry for typos! LOL!
I am always in a rush!
89
From: Lisa Platt <[email protected]> Sent: Friday, June 5, 2015 4:14 PM To: Board.Finance; TCDistribution Subject: Saxe Renovation
Dear Board of Finance and Town Council,
I understand that there is a Board of Finance meeting on June 9th and a Town Council meeting on June 17th and
during those meetings you will be discussing the drawings for the Saxe renovation. I respectfully ask you to support
a 12 room expansion and obtain drawings for such. Saxe was originally designed to hold 1,200 students. Saxe
currently has 1,297 students and is projected to grow to over 1,400 students in the next 6 years. The 12 room
expansion will help Saxe to properly house its growing number of students.
A strong school system is one of the backbones of our community and effects every property owner in town,
regardless of whether they have children in the school system.
I greatly appreciate your consideration in this matter. Thank you very much.
Lisa Platt
11 Horton Lane
New Canaan, CT 06840
(203) 966-1993 H
(203) 644-4205 M