(Letter sent to the New Hyde Park/Garden City Park School Board and printed at the writer's request.)

Back in the first week of June 2001 I submitted in person an application for transportation and to my confusion it was denied. This letter is an appeal to the school board regarding their decision on this matter.

Here is why. In the first week of June my daughters Tori and Kara were accepted to Our Lady of Grace Montessori School in Manhasset. I immediately submitted my application for transportation. What more could I do?

As you know in this day and age both parents need to go to work to be able to survive and provide for the future of their children. I've always met the deadline for transportation before, but unfortunately it was beyond my control because I had to wait until Our Lady of Grace made its decision to accept our children. I hope you understand how your decision will affect my family's life.

In other words without transportation I will not be able to work. I realize it is important to make the transportation deadline, but under the circumstances it was just not possible. Again your understanding and help is needed. Please look into your heart and make this one exception. I understand you have rules and regulations, but presently I know of no written law that would disallow you from making this one exception.

I have not sought legal advice on this matter because I am hoping that you will be able to find a way to grant bus transportation for my children because without transportation the fate of our family will be seriously affected.

Marlene Ditta