June 10, 2021 at 1:12 p.m.

'Transplants' take of ISD #118 woes

To the Editor,

By way of introduction I want to make it clear that we're "transplants" who retired to the Longville/Remer area. As such we've observed the apparently heart felt rivalry between the "locals" from both towns for the past 11 years which has now degenerated into something which could, in the words of John Dufner (in his Letter to the Editor published August 10), spell "the demise of ISD #118."

Keep in mind that we're "transplants" who aren't influenced by a rivalry between "locals." Thus we've consistently supported a consolidation of all ISD #118 facilities in Remer for economic reasons. If the main campus was in Longville we'd be supporting consolidation there as well, and I suppose we'd be directing this message to Remer parents.

The current crisis is not due to a School Board vote to close the Longville Elementary School, but rather an irrational reaction to that vote. Does anyone truly believe the education of elementary students going to school in Remer vs. Longville will suffer? That answer is no. Then what is it that has caused when John Dufner accurately describes as "an exodus of students" from ISD #118? The answer to this question is equally obvious.[[In-content Ad]]A number of Longville parents (don't blame the kids) not only disagree with closing the Longville school but are willing to destroy ISD #118 solely because of such closing. Among that number are elected members of the ISD #118 Board who I understand are transferring their kids out of ISD #118, thereby not only leading, but are encouraging the "exodus." It's also my understanding such board members have not even resigned from the board!

John Dufner asks for ideas "to save ISD #118." How about this? Suck it up, keep your kids in ISD #118 and make consolidation at the Remer campus work for all students. This of course requires putting petty rivalries aside in the interest of ISD #118.

It's up to disgruntled Longville parents now, and as "transplants" with no dog in the fight, I hope common sense prevails.

Clayton and Barb Shonka,

Remer, MN

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