On June 2, the Farmingdale Board of Education voted to change the name of East Memorial at Mill Lane School to the Stanley D. Saltzman East Memorial Elementary School.

What a wonderful way to pay tribute to the beloved principal of East Memorial. We always felt Mr. Saltzman and East Memorial were synonymous. It does sadden us to discover that the very next day throughout the school district the children, faculty and staff were told the name of the school is now called Stanley D. Saltzman Elementary.

What has happened to East Memorial? This is very distressing to our family. The school has a memorial monument that reads "To all those who served with valor through the years that we may remain free people." Now, isn't that memorial worth remembering? The community of East Farmingdale dedicated this tribute to all the brave men and women who served our great country.

Mr. Saltzman was very proud of East Memorial School. We're not so sure he would approve of the deletion of East Memorial from the school's name.

May we offer a compromise to everyone referring to the school as Saltzman Elementary or Stanley D. Saltzman Elementary? We suggest that it be referred to as Saltzman East Memorial or Stanley D. Saltzman East Memorial. We all know the school is an elementary school. Dropping the word elementary from the name is far more appropriate than leaving off East Memorial.

The administrators, faculty and staff should think about this suggestion. It is the right thing to do.

Mr. Saltzman means so much to so many people. Those who served this country mean just as much and should not be forgotten.

Children, residents, faculty and staff we ask that you remember both as you enter Stanley D. Saltzman East Memorial School. They are both worthy of your respect and remembrance.