Living in the Community of Greenhaven in Sacramento, I’m 6-8 minutes away from Alice Birney Elementary school. I was completely horrified to hear that the school could close by the end of the 2008-2009 school year.

On April 15, there was a board meeting where parents and the community could voice their opinion on the closure of the school. There were poster boards hanging from the fence that surrounds the campus that read “Kindergartners Love Alice Birney” or “Help save our school.” There was also another poster that informed all the neighbors around the area what time the meeting was going to be and asked them for support.

If the school were to close by the end of the year, students would be transferred to John Cabrillo Elementary school.

Although it is a known fact that our school system is facing serious cuts on education here is what concerns me personally. I understand that the Sacramento Unified School District could save millions if they were to close down the school, but have they seriously thought about the students? What about the teachers? What negative impact could this have on a child?

Many parents feel more secure when their children go to a smaller school as opposed to one that is over populated. There is a better relationship between the pupil and the teacher. Seeing the posters reflected the outrage of some parents and teachers; but, it also reflected the discomfort of the students.

In the end it all comes down to what the District decides is best and what they are able to afford. Hopefully, they will make the transition run smoothly. Education should be the most important priority. It is sad that some don’t view it like wise.