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Vote ‘Yes’

I am writing to urge the communities of Chester, Deep River, and Essex to come together and Vote “Yes” at the upcoming March 26 referendum. For the last six months, John Winthrop Middle School (JWMS) and Valley Regional High School (VRHS) teachers and students have been displaced from their respective buildings and classrooms, forcing a configuration at VRHS that has caused significant disruption to teaching and learning. On the heels of COVID-19, these same teachers and students have already endured the last five previous school years being upended.

The selected option to remediate and repair JWMS is more than worth the money to reinstate the staff and students. This investment will not only properly restore the JWMS, but will provide our students with a safe, modern learning environment to not only enhance their educational experience but also contribute to their overall academic success and social and emotional well-being. Moreover, it will demonstrate our commitment to valuing education and supporting the growth and development of our students.

A revitalized middle school building will serve as a point of pride for our community, attracting families and businesses to our area. It will enhance property values and contribute to the overall prosperity and vibrancy of Chester, Deep River, and Essex. While the remediation work is taking place, town officials, Region 4 leadership, and school stakeholders can engage in the careful, long-term planning needed to address the questions and concerns surrounding regionalization.

In the short term, I urge our community leaders and residents to prioritize the restoration of our middle school and to vote “Yes” to fund this important project. Let us come together to invest in the future of our students and ensure that they have access to the quality education they deserve.

Niki Waz, President

Region 4 Education Association