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To the Editor:

I recently read the article about the proposed Parent Resource Building and Student Health and Education Center in Southampton County. The article raised the question of where these buildings should be constructed but did not address several critical issues. These issues include whether this plan is relevant and financially sound for the educational success of students, the state of the educational budget, and the additional debt load this expenditure would incur for the county. If the construction funds are covered by grants, the county would still be responsible for all future maintenance, staffing, furnishings, and supplies. Would these funds be better spent on other needs within the school system?

The article did not specify the proposed use of the buildings or provide a timeline for construction and opening.

My research shows that there is only one parent center in the surrounding districts, located in Suffolk and operated by For Kids. Other districts have closed their centers due to lack of use. Parent resources are available through parent portals on county websites.

At first glance, this proposal seems to require more time and detail before committing budgetary support.

Carolyn M. Bickham

Franklin