We write to you today with much sadness in our hearts.
We’re sad for the children, for the seniors and for the future of our community. All we asked for was the opportunity to show the school board the exciting and profitable possibilities a community school at Qualicum Beach Elementary School would offer.
We do want to express our sincere appreciation for all of the interest and support we received and for those of you who shared our vision. Thank-you to our seniors Judy, Suzanne, June and Ann. Thank-you to Mary Miller for your years of volunteerism at QBES and your dedication to helping our children.
Thank-you to Teunis, Mary, Bill and Scott for your personal concern and civic leadership. Thank-you to Bill, Don and Ansel for your mentorship and imparting your knowledge and insight. Thank-you to the many individuals, businesses and organizations that endorsed our plan. The volunteer hours, which have been given for the betterment of the community, have been in the thousands. And a huge thank-you to our families and friends for your support, understanding and encouragement.
For us, the silver lining has been that upon returning to this community after many years away, we have met and reconnected with so many wonderful community-minded people.
There has been much talk about the cheers that came from some people in the audience when the board voted to close QBES. Although it was unconscionable, it was not surprising given the entire process undertaken by the school district pitted one community against another.
The board’s decision was made April 29. Our decision will be made November 15.
Anne Skipsey & Anna Sjoo, Co-Chairs, Qualicum Beach Community School Steering Committee
Qualicum Beach
