I'm writing to all residents of Hicksville who are concerned about the future of our community. We must all support a re-vote of the school bond, one that may unfortunately contain less provisions.

We have just missed an opportunity to ensure that our schools remain a safe and viable place for our kids to learn. For all homeowners, young and old, it is imperative that we spend money on our schools. Hicksville is a relatively affordable place to live, but we have to continue to attract decent, educated people who can and will spend time with their children. This is what will help to improve the test scores. Education is not a luxury. It is a necessity. It is not something we should be bargaining for.

It appears that certain concessions may have to be made. However, money must be made available for improving the grounds of all the schools, especially the high school and the middle school, both of which are a focal point of any community. Our sports teams shouldn't be playing on fields that look like dried up cow pastures. The bond must be submitted for a re-vote before interest rates rise and we lose the edge that we currently have. The longer we wait, the more money we'll pay and for less.

The recent bond issue was voted down due to several reasons. One was a sense of optimism that the bond would pass and therefore people didn't vote. Two, senior citizens on fixed incomes have a legitimate concern. We must remember, however, Hicksville has one of the lowest tax rates on Long Island, but unfortunately it's been at the expense of an important asset. Third, there are a few vocal members of this community whose constant barrage of letters clearly indicates that they have a disdain for the current school board. I am afraid their animosity toward the board seems to have clouded their thinking and, as a result, they have hurt the future of my child's education as well as the rest of the community's.

I've been biting my lip year after year respecting the right of these people to voice their opinions, but now they've really crossed the line. Their negative letters, unproved accusations and letter-writing tactics are enough to make one sick. While a few of their letters have been informative, they never have a positive thing to say. I want to thank them for telling their friends to vote no for my child's education year after year. If it were up to them, my child would be learning in a temporary classroom today. We are going to start losing good people if things continue as they are. And I thought they were so concerned about test scores.

If you detect a little anger in my words it is because I want to remain living in Hicksville, a much cheaper alternative than having to uproot my family. Everyone must get more involved. At a minimum, come out and vote when this bond is resubmitted.

Daniel Ryan