I’m writing concerning the closure of Harman and Pickens schools. We the people of this community and taxpayers are deeply concerned for these children.

The hazardous and lengthy trip over these mountains — not only in the winter, but summer, too — with all the transit trucks running Route 33. If I was a bus driver I would quit before I would take this responsibility on.

In one of the Board addendums, I read that there is nothing in Harman to sustain this school. Well, that’s truly wrong. We may not have a Walmart, but we have the Harman Presbyterian Church, the Harman Post Office, a Dollar General store, Ray’s Home Sales, the State Road garage, the Harman Fire Department, Harman EMS, the Harman Health Clinic and Pharmacy, the Harman Senior Center, the Town of Harman Sewage and Water Plant, and the Grant County Bank, which donated several thousands of dollars to repair the school in 2010.

We also have the Allegheny Restaurant; the Harman VFW Post; Midway Service Station Gas, Crafts, Food; a mayor and town council.

In 2010, when we worked so hard to renovate this school, to save it, we collected around $260,000. This school is beautiful and safe, and should not be closed. Don’t tell us it’s a maintenance problem. That can’t be right.

I also want the Board members to think, you know these kids will not be able to play sports. It’s too far away. Also think, why are your numbers down for attendance? Why? You’ve done away with pre-school and kindergarten, got rid of a good art teacher, and the only sports left is basketball.

If your administration is broke, then someone needs t hold the last administraton accountable. Better yet, call Donald Trump. I’m sure he will find funding from a federal level to hold both of these schools intact.

I’m a proud graduate of Harman High School. I was born and raised in Harman and would not want to change. Keep these schools open.

A concerned taxpayer,

L.M. Teter

Harman