From Phil Hakanson

Monroe

To the Editor:

Last week I attended a vocal concert presented by 6th, 7th and 8th graders from Monroe Middle School. (Full disclosure: I was there because I have a granddaughter who was singing). But by the time the concert was over I realized that I would have enjoyed it even apart from that fact. I was amazed at the variety and complexity of the pieces presented. Several days later I saw another middle school presentation: “Into the Woods Jr.” by Stephen Sondheim. (No relatives in the cast this time!). It was equally amazing. In this time of cynicism and polarization, what a joy it was to see a bunch of kids doing something so obviously worth doing — and having fun doing it.

In the wake of these experiences, and in support of our students and their dedicated teachers, I’m inviting my fellow grandparents in town to get behind our Monroe schools by voting “yes” in the upcoming referendum. A great educational system isn’t just good for our kids, it’s good for all of us!