LETTERS: NEW SCHOOL, OLD REPAIRS

To the editor:

I have read with interest about the collapse of the wall on the roof at Schultz Junior High School. I graduated from there in 1925 when it was known as Central High School. Many beautiful memories of our principal, Belmont Farley, and instructors come to mind. However, Central High appeared old at that time and didn't compare to the newly built schools of today with their modern technique. The building didn't seem stable in 1925.

I am not surprised, then, that a portion of the wall separated in 1987, or that a portion of the cafeteria roof fell in 1992. This certainly indicates the building could be susceptible to more possible danger.

Hiring a structural engineer can be very costly. Much money already has been spent, and it is still and old building. Costs have risen considerably since the last repair work. The wear and tear and age of building take their toll.

Education is of such importance today that we need the best facility for the students to receive the many advancements in learning. Also, our population is increasing. Constantly spending money for repair isn't going to make a new building. Eventually we will deem it necessary to construct a new building.

I would like to see that for the children of today and the future generation. After all, they are the ones who will mold our lives.

PAULA E. KEMPE

Cape Girardeau