Dear Neighbor,
I write to respectfully ask you to join me in support of a new Avery School, a critical choice for all of Dedham. Your support is gratefully appreciated by many, especially as we are in the midst of some very challenging economic times.
Despite the economic climate, the Massachusetts School Building Authority has committed to reimbursing more than 50 percent to the town of Dedham for the construction of a new Avery School, a rare opportunity from the Commonwealth to receive financial assistance for this necessary and vital project. A grant of this magnitude may not present itself again in the near future, and should not be undervalued. I assure you my colleagues on Beacon Hill are envious of our opportunity and have made it clear not to take it for granted.
As a community we have an obligation to provide a quality education in an appropriate learning environment for all our youngsters. The MSBA has determined that the current Avery School is one of the worst elementary schools in the state. Dedham, which in 1644 was the first town in the nation to authorize a taxpayer-funded public school, needs to continue its historic commitment to public education some 365 years later.We all know the greatest gift we can give any child, regardless of whether we have school-aged children or not, is the gift of an education. Your “YES” vote on Tuesday, Jan. 19, will have an immeasurable impact on generations to come, for decades to come – it is that significant.
Thank you in advance for your thoughtful consideration, wishing you a happy and healthy 2010.Sincerely,
State Rep. Paul McMurtry,
D-Dedham
