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Board to vote on Lenah schools Oct. 21
Following the Planning Commission's recommendation to deny a special exception for a middle and high school in Dulles South, the Board of Supervisors held a public hearing on the issue Oct. 14.
More than 60 speakers showed up to voice their support or opposition to the project, which would build two schools to house a combined 1,350 students in Lenah Run.
This was their last chance to speak in front of the board before the Supervisors vote on Oct. 21 on whether to approve or deny the special exception for the two schools.
The middle school would open in fall 2010 and the high school in fall 2011.
Those who spoke against the construction of the schools this week said the site is too expensive, and the schools would not be centrally located for the students they would serve.
"I realize more schools are necessary in this county, but let's make sure schools ... are actually in the current developments where they are needed by many residents," said Ben Callahan, a resident of Brambleton. "If the county can do better than $20 million for land to build these schools, then the county should do just that. I've heard many say it's too late or too costly to turn back now. You you can choose to clear the path to bad decisions."
Those supporting the two schools say the Lenah site is the only viable option to construct them in time to solve problems of overcrowding in Dulles South.
Tammy Meckel said the project will help relieve overcrowding at Mercer Middle School, where her son is headed next year.
"I believe my situation is not unlike hundreds of other families that live in the Dulles South district," she said. "The opening of these two schools are crucial to my children. My son has been receiving instruction in hallways – I am not happy about this – and frankly I see no relief in sight. I am concerned about the possibility of him being bussed to Ashburn schools. Please don't delay these schools any longer. We need Lenah now. Please do it."
Contact the reporter at ecoe@timespapers.com.
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