Hi,

My name is Catriona and I am a student at Manatee School for the Arts ( MSA ). We have just been told that the School District of Manatee County staff have recommended to the School Board to discontinue bus services for Charter Schools.Over 1,200 students including myself use the school bus to get to MSA and I know that if it was not for the bus service, a large number of those students including myself simply could not attend. To terminate a student’s Education in the Arts, after they have dedicated years to learning their craft is insulting.

Are these students being betrayed for the rich sum of 30 pieces of Silver, you ask? No! The ridiculous amount they estimate to save is only $55,000! Such a massive negative impact on student’s lives and futures for a small saving.

I urge all student, parents, family and friends to sign this petition to let the School Board know that we NEED our school buses to continue our education in the Arts and this idea is NOT an acceptable solution.

P.s. As well as signing the petition please email the individual School Board members below to let them know your views. They are elected to represent you!

Julie Aranibar - Chair (District 5) aranibarj@manateeschools.net