This is how I see the board of education's current decision to have one large 1,200 pupil middle school, instead of two 600-student schools.

Imagine being diagnosed with a life-threatening illness. You very earnestly seek the expert opinions on how to treat your illness from 10 well-respected, qualified surgeons. They all advise you of the same method of treatment. You then decide against taking their expert advice and opt for a simpler procedure because it is cheaper. You die in a year. Now that's not very wise! Get smart, Port. The difference between the two plans is pennies for the average taxpayer.

Debra Odell