I am a Ledyard resident and a Marine Science Magnet High School sophomore.

Ledyard High School (LHS) has a small FIRST® robotics team. The team would like to have me, because more members can help the team. Unfortunately, the BOE policy prohibits students not attending LHS, although they live in Ledyard. (“Ledyard establishes ad hoc committee on extracurricular and athletic participation,” Feb. 16)

I am not displacing a LHS student. I would help the team. There is no extra cost to include more members. I am seeking community support to change the policy to allow all students living in Ledyard to participate in robotics. This is a win-win situation for Ledyard children and the district.

The BOE homepage declares, “Ledyard is a diverse and empowering community that inspires in each child a continuous love of learning, self-confidence, and commitment to excellence. The community supports each child to achieve at the highest levels and to innovate in a world of change. Our children thrive and make a lasting contribution to the community. Citizens trust, invest in, and benefit from the Ledyard Public Schools.”

I hope the BOE makes an inclusive policy to support the education of all Ledyard children. My online petition has received 400+ responses.

Malloch Allison

Ledyard