“School closures in Kalamazoo should be off the table. We can all agree that every child deserves a quality education. Simply closing schools does nothing to address poverty in and out of the classroom, which studies show has a significant impact on a student’s test scores. It was announced last year that our schools were underfunded by some $1,200 per pupil. $1,200 per child per year could be used on everything from books to wrap-around services which combat the effects of poverty. Closing schools will not make the problem go away; it simply shifts its location. Our students deserve better, and it is our responsibility to help provide that for them.”
