To the Editor:

The most recent U.S. Census data on record indicates that North Adams experienced a population decline of 26 people from 2019 to 2022, averaging a difference less than 7 people per year. However, one major point the new Greylock opponents argue is that the school population will be cut in half, with several hundred fewer students over the next decade.

They claim that only one elementary school will be needed, negating the necessity of investing in a second school. Despite where they get their numbers, their projected enrollment figures do not align with the Census data showing a minute population decline the past few years.

The city's population appears to be stabilizing after the loss of Sprague in the 1980s. The trend of steep population drops has passed, and the city is now gaining nearly as many residents as it is losing each year. Given these small net changes, new developments, and attracting prospective residents, the city may see slight increases in the future, including an influx of children who will need schooling.

Maintaining two fully functional elementary schools in the coming decades is necessary. Rejecting the opportunity to build a new school at the same or lower cost than renovating the aging facility, with the state covering 80 percent of the expenses, would be shortsighted and fail to provide long-term cost savings.

Although my own children no longer attend the local schools, I recognize that when they did, the entire community — including residents without school-age kids — contributed to maintaining quality education by paying taxes. Strong teachers and curriculum are vital, but cultivating an environment that motivates and engages students is just as crucial.

Now it's my turn to pay it forward and support the next generation, which is why I am voting yes for the new Greylock School.

Keith Bona
North Adams, Mass.