Viewers Voice
Viewers react to Lee County school choice battle
LEE COUNTY - The topic of the school meeting in Lee County school choice and if it's working.
But, if you ask school board member Donnie Armstrong "I thought it was very lopsided I was very disappointed.”
Donnie’s not alone.
Former school board member Bob Chilmonik was so upset, that he ended up walking out of this meeting
“Well basically I thought it was a three hour lecture to the school board members as to why they could not move to neighborhood schools." Chilmonik says.
Supporters of school choice says it's given their kids more opportunities.
Critics say it's created hour long bus rides, and has been a strain on the system.
Most of you calling into four in your corner want to see it go.
Tony in Cape Coral says:
“I think if parents want their kids to go to a school out of their district they need to transport them there and cover any costs that might occur. Especially in these hard economic times.”
Richard says:
“I think it's nothing but a waste of money.”
Scott in N. Fort Myers says:
“When I went to school you went to the school closest to where you live and they should spend all of the extra money they're spending on these bus rides everywhere to improve the schools in bad neighborhoods if that was the problem to begin with.”
One idea board member Don Armstrong is suggesting.
A hybrid plan that keeps school choice for high schoolers and returning to neighborhood schools for everyone else.
Linda from Fort Myers thinks that's a great idea.
“Everyday I take my daughter to school and I see 11 school buses going into my daughters school and leave at the end of the day and they're not even a quarter full.”
We did hear from one viewer on the other side of choice.
"they need to ask the parents and I am sure they, the district, will find out that parents want it left alone. I think it is only a hand full of parents complaining about lengthy bus rides."



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