LETTER: Save Old School Buildings

Flanders Elementary School PHILIP THIBODEAU PHOTO

According to the dictionary, the term “ennui” means, in the context of demolishing historic buildings, “a profound, listless, dissatisfaction, boredom, or world-weary melancholia that arises from the destruction of something meaningful, familiar, and historically rich, often replaced by generic, low-complexity modern architecture.” Demolition by neglect occurs when architecture fails to provide sensory stimulation; the outcome is public apathy and destruction, based on the assumption that no one cares. The destruction of the Strand Theater in New Britain is a cautionary tale that brings to mind the ennui of demolition.

Flanders Elementary School and the old Southington High School school, which is now known as Derynoski Elementary, are buildings in need of many enhancements for public engagement. Less is best, and behind that principle are the three r’s: renovation, restoration and retrofitting. Students thrive in schools that provide a surrounding walkable community. Parents do not want the spirit of these schools to be swept away. Motivated parents want the schools to be saved, not eradicated in challenging economic times. Please study the plans for the school projects included in the November referendum and support those parents’ and the taxpayers’ input.

Jacki Willametz

Note: the opinions expressed in this letter do not necessarily reflect those of the Southington Outsider.