Editor,
Ridgefield schools are facing a crisis of overcrowding – a reality that impacts every student, family and member of our community.
The telltale signs are evident: long pick-up and drop-off lines that snarl traffic, lunch schedules extending almost to the end of the school day, students being cut from sports and the absence of all-school events due to a severe lack of parking spaces. But these are just the surface-level symptoms of a deeper issue that threatens the quality of education and the wellbeing of our students.
Did you know that every portable classroom is a glaring indicator of overcrowding? These temporary structures are only purchased when our schools exceed their capacity thresholds, a troubling trend that is becoming all too common in Ridgefield. With 26 portables spread across just four schools, it’s clear that this is not a sustainable long-term solution. When we break that down, the numbers are jaw dropping — 52 classrooms, with an estimated one-third of the student population learning in portables at any given time during the school day. The numbers speak for themselves — since our last bond was passed, we’ve welcomed 1,337 more students into our schools, marking a staggering 47% increase. Currently, 1,462 grade school students are crammed into facilities designed for just 1,197.
But overcrowding is more than just a logistical inconvenience; it’s a serious threat to our students’ academic success and overall wellbeing. Research suggests that overcrowded schools can lead to lower test scores, increased rates of bullying, and decreased student engagement. Our students deserve better – they deserve safe and quality learning spaces where they can thrive and reach their full potential.
That’s why it’s imperative that we come together as a community to support Propositions 10 and 11 on April 23. These propositions offer a solution to our overcrowding crisis, addressing the urgent need for new facilities and safety upgrades across the district.
Proposition 10 focuses on elementary school classroom space and includes plans for a new K-4 elementary school and essential repairs to original roofs across the district. Meanwhile, Proposition 11 goes even further, addressing fifth through eighth grade overcrowding and supporting the needs of all students to be active and engaged. From high school expansions to athletic field renovations, these propositions provide a holistic approach to meeting the diverse needs of our students.
By voting yes on Propositions 10 and 11, we are not just investing in buildings; we are investing in the future of Ridgefield. We are ensuring that every student has the opportunity to excel academically, participate in extracurricular activities, and develop the skills they need to succeed in life.
The time is now. Let’s bond together for our Ridgefield and our future.
