This letter was originally going to be about the poor condition of our current high school. As a parent of a senior graduating in a week, I was going to describe how the condition of the facilities affects our students, and how some classrooms felt more like dark, damp caves than places of learning.
But instead, I want to talk about something else—how we, as members of the North Attleborough community, can use our collective power for the greater good. And the greater good is not some distant ideal—it’s directly in our immediate personal/individual interest.
I changed my focus after a moment with my younger daughter, who won’t benefit much from the new building if the project is completed on schedule. After running errands around town, she asked, “Mom, why is spending money on my education reckless?” I realized she had seen the yard signs scattered across our town—signs saying “Vote NO, save our homes.” Another sign said, “Vote NO to reckless spending.” Adults understand these signs are about opposing the taxes to help finance the new high school. But to children, these signs send a much harsher message. They hear: “You’re not worth the investment.”
So here is my response to my daughter—and to some of our neighbors: Our children are absolutely worth the investment. A new school means better learning spaces, access to modern technology, and a safer, healthier environment. Many of these students already contribute to our community—working in local grocery stores and restaurants. In just a few years, they’ll be our doctors, architects and financial advisors. They will build your roads and invent new drugs.
Good school systems don’t just benefit students—they strengthen the entire community. Good schools attract families and businesses. They help grow the local economy and improve quality of life. And beyond economics, they enrich our communities. New facilities mean opportunities to watch student theater productions, cheer at football games, or enjoy the marching band at town parades.
Investing in education is not “reckless”—it’s wise. It’s “prudent” spending, and every single resident benefits from it.
Tuba Agartan, NORTH ATTLEBOROUGH