Hi Menlo Park city council,
I hear that there has been some opposition to opening the gymnastics program at burgess. I just wanted to send an email to support the opening, and to share my experience. In my peer group of parents, there is overwhelming STRONG support.
Unfortunately I think people who want it to reopen are not in a phase of life where we can attend council meetings. Myself included. We are busy parents and I wish I could be more involved in city votes and meetings, but it’s been hard to even keep abreast of what’s going on in my kid’s schools.
I’ve lived in Menlo Park for 12 years, and have bought two homes. One in downtown and now in Allied Arts. My 7 year old went to the little stars programs from 1-5, and loved it! It was so great to go there in the mornings and then in the afternoon sessions when he was older. A wonderful large space for him to run and play, meet new kids, and for us to feel a part of the community.
I now have another son, who’s 2 and was born in 2020, and am sad to see that the gym has not opened again. I get it though- pandemic is crazy and headcount is hard. It’s hard to manage expectations and mask rules.
However, we would be willing to wear masks if needed, and also can be flexible with times.
We’d be willing to pay more to adjust to the higher costs of talented staff. If you had a survey I would happily send it to my peers and parents, it could be good info to help with your decisions. I appreciate your time serving on our council and listening and considering all residents’ thoughts and opinions.
Thanks for your time,
Alison Wong
650-714-7734
400 Claire Pl.
