I am writint in regard to the recent Farmingdale School Board decision to support the school administration's recommendation to enlarge the Howitt Middle School to accommodate future sixth graders starting in September 2001. Despite the lack of any sound educational research to support the benefit of a large 6-8 middle school setting on academic performance, the board has chosen to ignore public opposition to this plan. They have, instead, chosen the more costly and disruptive plan which in addition to the construction expenses will require approximately $1 million annually for added staffing and busing costs. Our annual school tax rate will be markedly increased if the current middle school plan is enacted. The more modest and less costly option of additions to the elementary schools would require less disruption and expense. The risks to the children not ready for this transition to a large middle school setting after 5th grade, as well as, the costs to the community at large warrant a more conservative and cost effective solution to the temporary problem of overcrowding.

We will all pay a price for this board's short-sightedness. The academic and space needs of our schools can be addressed with a less expensive construction plan and programs provided at the elementary level where a greater benefit can be derived by more children earlier in their school experience.

We must all get involved in seeing that our voices are heard. This move cannot happen unless we vote to pay for it.

Katie Petrullo