Hi,
Im a Menlo Park resident both of whose children went through the Menlo-Atherton coop at Nealon Park. I know the 25 year lease is up soon. I believe the city is only offering a 1 year lease, currently. I think this is a big mistake for the future parents of Menlo Park. The place is simply magical. The care of the teachers, the lessons they pass along and the way they help educate new parents is amazing. It is also a place that builds community; because the parents must volunteer (the co-op aspect) we all get to know one another and create tight bonds around our community. Despite my youngest son last attending the co-op over seven years ago and despite the kids going to a variety of different elementary and middle schools, our family is still very tight with the parents from the co-op. Did I mention it is a very magical place.
Please, please, please, find a way to renew the lease for a long time, 15 years or more, so we can keep this wonderful school alive in this community.
I would be happy to speak live to anyone at anytime about this.
Regards,
Marshall Haines
(M) 415-710-5874
