Roughly 50 people filled the Pentz Elementary School gym last night for the first public hearing in this year's school review process. About 20 of them, many who were parents of students or attended the school at some point, highlighted their concerns if the school were to close. Residents pointed out how important Pentz Elementary is to the community, the school's high academic standing and its family-like atmosphere. Paul Kelley has a son in grade two. He says the school is exceptional.Meanwhile, Study Committee Chair Sherry Doucet says it will be tough to adjust if the school is closed.
Doucet says she thought it was a good discussion and realizes the tough decision ahead for the South Shore Regional School Board. Members were in attendance to gather feedback. They will make a decision on each of the six schools under review at a public board meeting March 27. The next public hearing is planned for February 18 at 6:30pm at Hebbville Academy.