What a sad state the Old Lyme Board of Education is in, where party and politics take precedence over children and families. The recent "debate" was full of pat answers and people who care so little about education in our town that one of the candidates didn't even know Center School won co-elementary school of the year; he incorrectly stated it was Mile Creek. That same candidate was asked by the Republican Town Committee to run for a seat, which smacks of politics.

Additionally, two candidates called out the current board members for creating a contentious atmosphere and being perceived as unapproachable by the parental community. The current board and superintendent went against the wishes of the majority of parents and voted to close the best and most beloved school in the district and their promises of easing the transition and helping families with issues were empty. It is clear that with this group of people serving on our board (excluding Paul Fuchs who only recently replaced Alice Burbank), parents in the town have no voice.

We parents first need to show up to vote and second, to vote for change. In addition, in light of the change in seasonal housing restrictions, parents should demand the board revisit the redistricting plan and question the logic behind closing the best school in the district.