The Meadowlark Parent Organization is opposed to Superintendent Russell's preliminary budget proposal. The proposal would close Meadowlark Elementary, YOUR neighborhood school, to allow for the expansion of Buena Vista Spanish Immersion School. The proposal creates two untested grade configurations, K-3 and 4-8. Children from Meadowlark would attend Bertha Holt Elementary or Monroe Middle School depending on their grade level. We believe that 4th and 5th graders are too young to be placed in a middle school environment and that it places them at undue risk. The district has taken a position where it values alternative schools over neighborhood schools. We feel this is contrary to public opinion and are asking for your support. We, the undersigned 4J School District residents, wish to formally register our opposition to Superintendent Russell's preliminary budget proposal.