I am writing in support of the initiative to renovate South Portland High School. I recently took advantage of the opportunity to tour the high school and it didn’t take long for me to witness the extreme condition which has the school’s accreditation on warning status.

After living in the Washington, D.C., area for the past decade, my husband and I moved to South Portland last summer with our hearts set on raising our two small children (ages 1 and 3) in a strong community that offered a balanced lifestyle. We looked extensively at homes and communities throughout the area, but we always kept comparing everything we saw to South Portland – the sense of community we felt when talking to residents, the excellent reputation of all the elementary schools, the diversity that fuels this great city, not to mention the extensive recreational programs, outdoor offerings and the beautiful beaches.

Ultimately, it was that sense of community that drove our decision to call South Portland home for our family and it is our hope and belief that this great community will respond and support the high school renovation at this critical time. A strong school system is what drives a strong community and a strong community drives local businesses and increased home values, which ultimately attracts more and more families and businesses.

Take pride in South Portland, invest in our children, support our community and vote yes.

Regan Johnson
South Portland

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