Reflections on schools and housing

I think it is a shame that children have to lose their education because their parents are divorcing, the breadwinner loses a job or the family loses their home to foreclosure.

In response to Mr. Constable's column on children who are getting an education in the wrong school district, there are many more important things to worry about than children whose parents want them to go to a better school district than they are in. Many times due to the parents divorce, the child or children are put with the mother who already is the low-earner and has to move to an area where she can afford to live but does not offer the same educational opportunities.

It is cruel to remove a child from the school he or she has been attending due to the parents' instability. Why add instability to the child's life?

Sometimes, diversity and acceptance of diversity causes problems for a child. Many are harassed for attending a school where they are in the minority (for example, the girl from Ireland who not long ago was harassed to the point of suicide).

To avoid excessive bullying, a transfer to another school is certainly justified.

Whereas, Mr. Constable's really nice article regarding the housing needs in Arlington Heights for the mentally ill was very much appreciated.

Sadly, the people of Arlington Heights know there is a need but don't want to fill it. My understanding is that there are 5,300 people suffering from mental illness in Arlington Heights alone. My guess is that figure is underestimated so Mr. Constable's article was very relevant in this case.

Suzanne Stark

Arlington Heights