Save Clifton Elementary School - Home of the Cardinals
Target:
Dean Tistadt, Chief Operating Officer, Dept. of Facilities and Transportation FCPS
Sponsored by:
The Fairfax County Public School System is trying to close our cherished Clifton Elementary School for small, repairable reasons (like kids drink bottled water, instead of fountain water). Everbody who attends Clifton Elementary really likes it! Clifton Elementary is in a unique location up on a hill, and it is an exciting place to learn. It has a specially designed courtyard where we get to garden, take pictures, and do other educational things. Clifton Elementary is surrounded by wildlife, trees, and the great town of Clifton. If Clifton loses the school, we will be losing more than the building. We will be losing part of our lives.
The Fairfax County Public School System is trying to close our cherished Clifton Elementary School for small, repairable reasons (like kids drink bottled water, instead of fountain water). Everbody who attends Clifton Elementary really likes it! Clifton Elementary is in a unique location up on a hill, and it is an exciting place to learn. It has a specially designed courtyard where we get to garden, take pictures, and do other educational things. Clifton Elementary is surrounded by wildlife, trees, and the great town of Clifton. If Clifton loses the school, we will be losing more than the building. We will be losing part of our lives.
Dear Mr. Tistadt,
We the undersigned request that Clifton Elementary School remain open and in use. It is a school bubbling with energy and life.
Clifton Elementary School holds many happy memories, and many more happy memories to come. Building a new school will costs hundreds of thousands of dollars. It will also require trees and natural habitats to be destroyed. We would also have to attend an unfamiliar school, leave extra early in the morning , and spend more time sitting on a school bus. Please read this letter and seriously consider the reasons we would love to have our cherished Clifton Elementary School remain open.
We the undersigned request that Clifton Elementary School remain open and in use. It is a school bubbling with energy and life.
Clifton Elementary School holds many happy memories, and many more happy memories to come. Building a new school will costs hundreds of thousands of dollars. It will also require trees and natural habitats to be destroyed. We would also have to attend an unfamiliar school, leave extra early in the morning , and spend more time sitting on a school bus. Please read this letter and seriously consider the reasons we would love to have our cherished Clifton Elementary School remain open.
We signed the "Save Clifton Elementary School - Home of the Cardinals" petition!
# 408:
8:23 am PST, Jan 6,
Chloe Paxton, Virginia
ewmygod!i like totally dont want to lose clifton elementary i went there for like a year and i loved it! like best school evaaa!! i went there in 6th grade and everyone was like totally friendly! it was amazing! dont close it! chouuu
ewmygod!i like totally dont want to lose clifton elementary i went there for like a year and i loved it! like best school evaaa!! i went there in 6th grade and everyone was like totally friendly! it was amazing! dont close it! chouuu
# 407:
12:28 pm PST, Jan 4,
Silvia Melo, Portugal
# 406:
4:08 am PST, Dec 18,
Steve & Cari Britt, Virginia
# 405:
11:55 am PST, Dec 17,
Amelia Cohen, Massachusetts
# 404:
3:04 pm PST, Dec 16,
Kelly O'Donnell, Maryland
# 403:
3:03 pm PST, Dec 14,
Name not displayed, Virginia
My husband and I moved to Clifton over seven years ago, well before we started having children. We chose Clifton for one reason; we wanted our future children to attend Clifton Elementary. Its reputation and the fact that our children could attend a community school from K-6 was exactly what we were looking for. We now have a family and it would be devastating after all these years to lose the primary reason we moved here. If this happens, we will certainly move from the area. It is not my desire to have my young child(ren) bus for ridiculously long periods, nor is it my goal to have them be but a number among 900+ other children. We have paid Fairfax taxes for nearly twenty years, realizing that we would eventually benefit us when we had children. There are many others would moved to this area whom are in a similar situation. I have spoken to many mothers about this and we are all dismayed. This community pays more than its share to keep Fairfax schools up and running. I can't imagine Fairfax would so easily cast aside a tight knit community school that is doing such a good job with its students and with little to no regard to the impact it will have on the community it serves.
My husband and I moved to Clifton over seven years ago, well before we started having children. We chose Clifton for one reason; we wanted our future children to attend Clifton Elementary. Its reputation and the fact that our children could attend a community school from K-6 was exactly what we were looking for. We now have a family and it would be devastating after all these years to lose the primary reason we moved here. If this happens, we will certainly move from the area. It is not my desire to have my young child(ren) bus for ridiculously long periods, nor is it my goal to have them be but a number among 900+ other children. We have paid Fairfax taxes for nearly twenty years, realizing that we would eventually benefit us when we had children. There are many others would moved to this area whom are in a similar situation. I have spoken to many mothers about this and we are all dismayed. This community pays more than its share to keep Fairfax schools up and running. I can't imagine Fairfax would so easily cast aside a tight knit community school that is doing such a good job with its students and with little to no regard to the impact it will have on the community it serves.
# 402:
1:12 pm PST, Dec 14,
Name not displayed, Virginia
I live in Mason District- near the old Masonville Elementary school (Lacy Center). It was closed about 25 years ago. Guess what-there are now so many kids overcrowding the other elementary schools nearby, they are not only re-opening the school, they are rebuilding it completely. So closing Clifton Elementary may be a short term solution but it won't solve a long term problem. They may save a few dollars now, but in a few years, they will have to reopen it or build a new school to accomodate the ever growing population in Fairfax Counnty. Keep it open, renovate it and keep this vital link to the community. Don't do to Clifton what was done to my neighborhood.
I live in Mason District- near the old Masonville Elementary school (Lacy Center). It was closed about 25 years ago. Guess what-there are now so many kids overcrowding the other elementary schools nearby, they are not only re-opening the school, they are rebuilding it completely. So closing Clifton Elementary may be a short term solution but it won't solve a long term problem. They may save a few dollars now, but in a few years, they will have to reopen it or build a new school to accomodate the ever growing population in Fairfax Counnty. Keep it open, renovate it and keep this vital link to the community. Don't do to Clifton what was done to my neighborhood.
# 401:
10:34 am PST, Dec 13,
Alina Neas, Virginia
# 400:
5:37 am PST, Dec 12,
Mary Ralston, Virginia
Please keep the local school.
Please keep the local school.
# 399:
7:16 pm PST, Dec 11,
Paula Sabo, Virginia
# 398:
1:59 pm PST, Dec 11,
David Higgins, Virginia
# 397:
1:30 pm PST, Dec 11,
Diane Burgess, Virginia
I started my career as a Learning Disabilities Resource Teacher in 1973 at Clifton Elementary when it was under the leadership of the late Jean Leer, one of the most outstanding principals the county ever had. This gem of a school is a true community treasure that has shaped the lives of many outstanding leaders in today's society. Closing Clifton Elementary would be dismantling a bridge from a rich and fruitful past to a bright and promising future.
I started my career as a Learning Disabilities Resource Teacher in 1973 at Clifton Elementary when it was under the leadership of the late Jean Leer, one of the most outstanding principals the county ever had. This gem of a school is a true community treasure that has shaped the lives of many outstanding leaders in today's society. Closing Clifton Elementary would be dismantling a bridge from a rich and fruitful past to a bright and promising future.
# 396:
7:11 am PST, Dec 11,
Sonia Becker, Virginia
# 395:
6:07 am PST, Dec 11,
Rushing Family, Virginia
# 394:
4:54 am PST, Dec 11,
Rebecca Higgins, Virginia
# 393:
8:05 pm PST, Dec 10,
Elizabeth Schultz, Virginia
Our school makes our community - we do not have 'neighborhoods' like most other area schools, therefore the elementary school is the essential fabric to Clifton - the connectivity of our elementary aged children. Our homes are valued in relation to the school. It is integral - and 'rebuilding' elsewhere solves nothing - it further increases the tax burden on overtaxed county residents, it disburses our families' students, it over-complicates the zoning lines of which students should go to which schools and so on. If we wanted our students to go to school elsewhere, we would have moved elsewhere. Clifton ES is only perceived to be a 'problem' by those who aren't going or haven't gone there...those with students there now or who have had students in the past stand united in spirit and resolve to maintain our children's education and our community.
Our school makes our community - we do not have 'neighborhoods' like most other area schools, therefore the elementary school is the essential fabric to Clifton - the connectivity of our elementary aged children. Our homes are valued in relation to the school. It is integral - and 'rebuilding' elsewhere solves nothing - it further increases the tax burden on overtaxed county residents, it disburses our families' students, it over-complicates the zoning lines of which students should go to which schools and so on. If we wanted our students to go to school elsewhere, we would have moved elsewhere. Clifton ES is only perceived to be a 'problem' by those who aren't going or haven't gone there...those with students there now or who have had students in the past stand united in spirit and resolve to maintain our children's education and our community.
# 392:
8:01 pm PST, Dec 10,
Christine Cavaleri, Virginia
I believe that our children received an excellent early education at Clifton Elementary School. We came to America from Bermuda and looked for a small town with a vibrant community. We found an environment where close personal ties were formed that have stayed with us over many years. Our children, likewise, still feel part of this community and this town is still "home" for them. The charm and closeness of the Clifton community would be be severely impacted if the school were to close. More importantly, it would definitely be a loss for the students themselves, to say nothing of the economic effect on the town.
I believe that our children received an excellent early education at Clifton Elementary School. We came to America from Bermuda and looked for a small town with a vibrant community. We found an environment where close personal ties were formed that have stayed with us over many years. Our children, likewise, still feel part of this community and this town is still "home" for them. The charm and closeness of the Clifton community would be be severely impacted if the school were to close. More importantly, it would definitely be a loss for the students themselves, to say nothing of the economic effect on the town.
# 391:
7:37 am PST, Dec 8,
Michael Brown, Virginia
All of my best friends come from this school. All of my best teachers come from here too. It would be a shame if it was gone.
All of my best friends come from this school. All of my best teachers come from here too. It would be a shame if it was gone.
# 390:
12:55 pm PST, Dec 6,
Arell Gray, Arizona
My name is Arell Gray, I attended Clifton Elementary from when I was in kindergarten through sixth grade. Mrs. Moore was my first teacher there and she is still a family friend. That kindergarten year was the year we chose the Cardinals as our mascot. While I attended Clifton I was often Class Representative to the SCA and eventually the Treasurer, then President of the school. I am now an environmental geologist and I am completing a Master's Degree at Arizona State University. I know now, and always have, that Clifton Elementary is a special place. The relationships I have formed there are loving and lifelong, the kind where time and distance have no impact upon strength. Clifton is a unique place where learning and growth flourish. It provides a close knit, comfortable community that is uncommon among education facilities today. Today I can name nearly everyone, first and last names, from my first grade class because we became like family. I want to thank everyone who was a part of that community for making Clifton Elementary the magical place that it is.
My name is Arell Gray, I attended Clifton Elementary from when I was in kindergarten through sixth grade. Mrs. Moore was my first teacher there and she is still a family friend. That kindergarten year was the year we chose the Cardinals as our mascot. While I attended Clifton I was often Class Representative to the SCA and eventually the Treasurer, then President of the school. I am now an environmental geologist and I am completing a Master's Degree at Arizona State University. I know now, and always have, that Clifton Elementary is a special place. The relationships I have formed there are loving and lifelong, the kind where time and distance have no impact upon strength. Clifton is a unique place where learning and growth flourish. It provides a close knit, comfortable community that is uncommon among education facilities today. Today I can name nearly everyone, first and last names, from my first grade class because we became like family. I want to thank everyone who was a part of that community for making Clifton Elementary the magical place that it is.
# 389:
7:54 pm PST, Dec 5,
Frederick Swartzendruber, Virginia
# 388:
11:52 am PST, Dec 5,
Dana Camilleri, Virginia
Clifton Elementary is a wonderful school that maintains academic excellence and sense of a small community that has become increasingly rare in Fairfax county. Like the other alums who have commented, I am certain I would not be where I am today without the care and attention the Clifton teachers afforded me based on the small class size, and the experience of being part of a close community. There have to be other options for the county that do not involve shutting down one of its best schools and redistributing its students to a large new elementary school where it's likely they will receive less attention. Please don't close Clifton down!
Clifton Elementary is a wonderful school that maintains academic excellence and sense of a small community that has become increasingly rare in Fairfax county. Like the other alums who have commented, I am certain I would not be where I am today without the care and attention the Clifton teachers afforded me based on the small class size, and the experience of being part of a close community. There have to be other options for the county that do not involve shutting down one of its best schools and redistributing its students to a large new elementary school where it's likely they will receive less attention. Please don't close Clifton down!
# 387:
10:15 am PST, Dec 5,
Caitlin Schneiderman, Virginia
clifton elementary made me who i am today. closing the doors to a school full of so many possibilities would be a total travesty. clifton alumni- 1995.
clifton elementary made me who i am today. closing the doors to a school full of so many possibilities would be a total travesty. clifton alumni- 1995.
# 386:
8:28 am PST, Dec 5,
Liza Diamond, Virginia
I went to Clifton Elementary and it is truly a great school! I hope that they do not choose to shut it down, we would be losing an important piece of Clifton's history and culture. Clifton Alumni- 1995
I went to Clifton Elementary and it is truly a great school! I hope that they do not choose to shut it down, we would be losing an important piece of Clifton's history and culture. Clifton Alumni- 1995
# 385:
5:17 pm PST, Nov 20,
Michael Siemen, Virginia
Clifton alumni - Class of 1996
Clifton alumni - Class of 1996
# 384:
6:59 am PST, Nov 4,
Katie Hickey, Virginia
# 383:
9:45 am PDT, Oct 29,
Leslie Porter, Virginia
Having been redistricted to a different high school in the last boundary change, I can attest to the fact that losing your school negatively impacts the community, the students, and their families. Please don't close Clifton Elementary.
Having been redistricted to a different high school in the last boundary change, I can attest to the fact that losing your school negatively impacts the community, the students, and their families. Please don't close Clifton Elementary.
# 382:
7:36 am PDT, Oct 29,
Esther Cupp, Virginia
# 381:
10:13 am PDT, Oct 28,
Sam Blesi, Virginia
Closing a fine institution such as Clifton Elementary is is just wrong,and it will do nothing to solve the future overcrowding issues facing other areas of the school district. There are much better alternatives/choices available which will remedy the issues of concern that have been raised by the board. These alternatives are sound and should be adopted without hesitation. Closing the school is not justified under any circumstance.
Closing a fine institution such as Clifton Elementary is is just wrong,and it will do nothing to solve the future overcrowding issues facing other areas of the school district. There are much better alternatives/choices available which will remedy the issues of concern that have been raised by the board. These alternatives are sound and should be adopted without hesitation. Closing the school is not justified under any circumstance.
# 380:
9:08 am PDT, Oct 27,
Adam Christian, Virginia
Analyzing a set of facts and figures only covers the technical portion of closing a school. There are many other factors including cultural and organizational aspects which need to be taken into account when dealing with a sociotechnical system such as the policy of closing Clifton. Culturally, Clifton Elementary unites the town of Clifton. There is something fundamentally human about raising our children together. Organizationally, the town of Clifton distributes information through the school in order to provide more informed citizens. The political polls are a shining example of this. The FCPS School Board needs to understand the complexity when dealing with the sociotechnical system of closing Clifton Elementary.
Analyzing a set of facts and figures only covers the technical portion of closing a school. There are many other factors including cultural and organizational aspects which need to be taken into account when dealing with a sociotechnical system such as the policy of closing Clifton. Culturally, Clifton Elementary unites the town of Clifton. There is something fundamentally human about raising our children together. Organizationally, the town of Clifton distributes information through the school in order to provide more informed citizens. The political polls are a shining example of this. The FCPS School Board needs to understand the complexity when dealing with the sociotechnical system of closing Clifton Elementary.
# 379:
1:36 pm PDT, Oct 25,
Julio J. Pascual, Virginia
Clifton Elementary is the only institution that brings our children together in all the Clifton neighborhoods. There are multiple cultural, social and sports organizations in the area that do not do this vital part and bring everyone together. This school is the heartbeat and glue of this community.
Clifton Elementary is the only institution that brings our children together in all the Clifton neighborhoods. There are multiple cultural, social and sports organizations in the area that do not do this vital part and bring everyone together. This school is the heartbeat and glue of this community.
# 378:
9:32 am PDT, Oct 25,
Name not displayed, Virginia
# 377:
2:42 pm PDT, Oct 24,
Janice Falk, Virginia
# 376:
8:48 am PDT, Oct 20,
Eric Desman, Virginia
I moved to Clifton this summer in August partly for the school pyramid, including Clifton Elementary. I was previously in the Centreville HS pyramid coming from Little Rocky Run. I was distraught to hear that one of the main lures into this community, Clifton Elementary, may not be available. While only two months into our first year at CES, it is clear that the caring and quality of education was just what my children needed above what was available at Union Mill. I will be devastated if this school closes, as will my children. They absolutely LOVE this school. Not only will this be a huge negative for my family, but the change in schools, along with a change in the pyramid, will severely impair home sales in the Clifton area and will depress home values even further. I implore you to work towards keeping Clifton Elementary open. I understand that there are over-crowding issues in other parts of the county that are forcing a look at other options. Why can't the County require some of the builders, who are growing the populations in these areas of overcrowding, to build schools locally. A development like Little Rocky Run has a school built in the middle of the community. Why can't they REQUIRE and plan the same for the developments that are being approved now? Thanks for your consideration Eric Desman
I moved to Clifton this summer in August partly for the school pyramid, including Clifton Elementary. I was previously in the Centreville HS pyramid coming from Little Rocky Run. I was distraught to hear that one of the main lures into this community, Clifton Elementary, may not be available. While only two months into our first year at CES, it is clear that the caring and quality of education was just what my children needed above what was available at Union Mill. I will be devastated if this school closes, as will my children. They absolutely LOVE this school. Not only will this be a huge negative for my family, but the change in schools, along with a change in the pyramid, will severely impair home sales in the Clifton area and will depress home values even further. I implore you to work towards keeping Clifton Elementary open. I understand that there are over-crowding issues in other parts of the county that are forcing a look at other options. Why can't the County require some of the builders, who are growing the populations in these areas of overcrowding, to build schools locally. A development like Little Rocky Run has a school built in the middle of the community. Why can't they REQUIRE and plan the same for the developments that are being approved now? Thanks for your consideration Eric Desman
# 375:
11:50 am PDT, Oct 16,
Julia Perez Melendez, Virginia
# 374:
3:22 am PDT, Oct 13,
Can Atik, Turkey
# 373:
5:57 pm PDT, Oct 11,
Pam Krahl, Maryland
I grew up in Clifton and attended Clifton Elementary School. I learned that the school might be closed at Clifton Day. My daughter is in Kindergarten, and if I lived in Clifton, I would ABSOLUTELY want her to go to Clifton Elementary School.
I grew up in Clifton and attended Clifton Elementary School. I learned that the school might be closed at Clifton Day. My daughter is in Kindergarten, and if I lived in Clifton, I would ABSOLUTELY want her to go to Clifton Elementary School.
# 372:
11:11 am PDT, Oct 2,
Denise Nagel, Virginia
Clifton Elementary is a great school nestled in the Clifton hills. I have attended many games for my nephews there. If we eliminate this terrific little school it will just pose additional over crowding at other local elementaries. We already have a disaster taking place with transportation - distant walkers and a kiss n' ride that has exploded with traffic at Union Mill Elementary. Let's not make MORE mistakes!!!
Clifton Elementary is a great school nestled in the Clifton hills. I have attended many games for my nephews there. If we eliminate this terrific little school it will just pose additional over crowding at other local elementaries. We already have a disaster taking place with transportation - distant walkers and a kiss n' ride that has exploded with traffic at Union Mill Elementary. Let's not make MORE mistakes!!!
# 371:
4:40 am PDT, Sep 30,
Joseph Ketchum, New York
Clifton Elementary is a great place. I went there in the days when there was no gym and had my sixth grade class outside in a trailer. Great teachers such as Nanzetta Merriman, Al Regalis, Rose Payne, and Derek McClintock have passed through there. The world is becoming extremely antiseptic today - everything looks the same -- the town of Clifton, and the school specifically, are exceptions to that. Please do not close the school.
Clifton Elementary is a great place. I went there in the days when there was no gym and had my sixth grade class outside in a trailer. Great teachers such as Nanzetta Merriman, Al Regalis, Rose Payne, and Derek McClintock have passed through there. The world is becoming extremely antiseptic today - everything looks the same -- the town of Clifton, and the school specifically, are exceptions to that. Please do not close the school.
# 370:
7:53 am PDT, Sep 29,
Jutta Nohra, Virginia
# 369:
8:20 am PDT, Sep 16,
Richard Pratt, Virginia
Why dismantle one of the top peforming schools in the school district? Closing the school will make for very unhappy parents/voters, hurt the school district and its reputation and will negatively impact the Town, which in turn will hurt the County.A bad idea all around.
Why dismantle one of the top peforming schools in the school district? Closing the school will make for very unhappy parents/voters, hurt the school district and its reputation and will negatively impact the Town, which in turn will hurt the County.A bad idea all around.
# 368:
9:54 am PDT, Sep 15,
Name not displayed, Virginia
# 367:
8:02 pm PDT, Sep 14,
Jim Alter, Virginia
My 2 children, Liza and Tommy, both attended Clifton Elementary, and I believe they both received a great foundation for their future education at Robinson and George Mason. The school is part of the community they grew up in and it would be a shame if future students weren't able to attend a local school.
My 2 children, Liza and Tommy, both attended Clifton Elementary, and I believe they both received a great foundation for their future education at Robinson and George Mason. The school is part of the community they grew up in and it would be a shame if future students weren't able to attend a local school.
# 366:
7:20 am PDT, Sep 14,
Ken Bredemeier, Virginia
My son Ryan spent six wonderful elementary years at Clifton Elementary, certainly getting a great foundation on his education, subsequent graduation from Robinson Secondary and then the University of Michigan. Now he's studying for the LSAT and headed to law school in a year. But none of that would have occurred without the caring teachers and experiences in the small, country-side setting that is Clifton Elementary. We don't live directly in Clifton, but its atmosphere and the sense of learning and instruction that occur there are a treasure to be kept, not discarded. I hope that the FCPS can see fit to figure out a way to keep the school open, make the necessary repairs to modernize it and keep Clifton relevant and an integral part of a Fairfax education. Thank you for listening. Ken Bredemeier
My son Ryan spent six wonderful elementary years at Clifton Elementary, certainly getting a great foundation on his education, subsequent graduation from Robinson Secondary and then the University of Michigan. Now he's studying for the LSAT and headed to law school in a year. But none of that would have occurred without the caring teachers and experiences in the small, country-side setting that is Clifton Elementary. We don't live directly in Clifton, but its atmosphere and the sense of learning and instruction that occur there are a treasure to be kept, not discarded. I hope that the FCPS can see fit to figure out a way to keep the school open, make the necessary repairs to modernize it and keep Clifton relevant and an integral part of a Fairfax education. Thank you for listening. Ken Bredemeier
# 365:
7:10 am PDT, Sep 14,
Ryan Bredemeier, Virginia
I started my education at Clifton Elementary in a comforting, supportive and encouraging environment that the tree lined property of the historic hilltop campus provided. The close knit relationship between students and teachers offered by Clifton's small size is irreplaceable, and will totally be lost in the ever more common supersized elementary schools, such as the one that is being proposed to replace Clifton Elementary. I honestly believe that had I gone to an school that lacked the close knit nature of Clifton Elementary I would not be where I am today. I graduated a few years ago from The University of Michigan and am currently applying to several top 25 Law Schools. None of this would be the case if it were not for the mindful teachers and staff at Clifton, who were able to recognized my difficulty with speech early on (in the first grade) because they were able to really get to know each and every student. They ensured that I got the specialized assistance I required, and helped me work through my difficulties, which set me up for lasting educational success. The environment of care and concern offered at Clifton Elementary ensured my educational success through the rest of my time at Clifton, six years at Robinson Secondary School, four years at the University of Michigan and in the future at the law school that I will ultimately attend. Please reconsider the drastic, and unnecessary action of closing Clifton Elementary simply to avoid repair costs. Clifton Elementary is more than just a school, it is the foundation of long lasting friendships for the community of Clifton and Fairfax Station. Most of my best friends in the world today, are the same people I played kickball with on the fields of Clifton elementary, participated in “Colonial Day” with in the fifth grade, and played in the woods of Clifton with after school and a snack from the Clifton General Store. A new mega elementary school near the sprawling Rocky Run neighborhood could never provide the unique experiences that Clifton did to me and thousands of other students. Don’t close a historic location, major part of the Clifton Community and excellent school when the devastating consequences to the Clifton community and future students are so great, and can so easily be avoided.
I started my education at Clifton Elementary in a comforting, supportive and encouraging environment that the tree lined property of the historic hilltop campus provided. The close knit relationship between students and teachers offered by Clifton's small size is irreplaceable, and will totally be lost in the ever more common supersized elementary schools, such as the one that is being proposed to replace Clifton Elementary. I honestly believe that had I gone to an school that lacked the close knit nature of Clifton Elementary I would not be where I am today. I graduated a few years ago from The University of Michigan and am currently applying to several top 25 Law Schools. None of this would be the case if it were not for the mindful teachers and staff at Clifton, who were able to recognized my difficulty with speech early on (in the first grade) because they were able to really get to know each and every student. They ensured that I got the specialized assistance I required, and helped me work through my difficulties, which set me up for lasting educational success. The environment of care and concern offered at Clifton Elementary ensured my educational success through the rest of my time at Clifton, six years at Robinson Secondary School, four years at the University of Michigan and in the future at the law school that I will ultimately attend. Please reconsider the drastic, and unnecessary action of closing Clifton Elementary simply to avoid repair costs. Clifton Elementary is more than just a school, it is the foundation of long lasting friendships for the community of Clifton and Fairfax Station. Most of my best friends in the world today, are the same people I played kickball with on the fields of Clifton elementary, participated in “Colonial Day” with in the fifth grade, and played in the woods of Clifton with after school and a snack from the Clifton General Store. A new mega elementary school near the sprawling Rocky Run neighborhood could never provide the unique experiences that Clifton did to me and thousands of other students. Don’t close a historic location, major part of the Clifton Community and excellent school when the devastating consequences to the Clifton community and future students are so great, and can so easily be avoided.
# 364:
6:47 pm PDT, Sep 13,
Judi Bredemeier, Virginia
For the six years that my son Ryan was there, Clifton Elementary was the focus of his world, and mine. The sense of community engendered at our just-right-sized school produced strong and lasting friendships and bonds among students and parents alike, and enabled Ryan to flourish at both Robinson Secondary and the University of Michigan. Clifton Elementary was and is the bedrock of a vibrant and supportive community that still wants, needs, and deserves its own school.
For the six years that my son Ryan was there, Clifton Elementary was the focus of his world, and mine. The sense of community engendered at our just-right-sized school produced strong and lasting friendships and bonds among students and parents alike, and enabled Ryan to flourish at both Robinson Secondary and the University of Michigan. Clifton Elementary was and is the bedrock of a vibrant and supportive community that still wants, needs, and deserves its own school.
# 363:
1:19 pm PDT, Sep 13,
Lisa Kidd, Virginia
The school and town are closely linked. I'm concerned on the impact of the town if there is no Kids nearby. And I'm concerned about the building usage after the school is closed
The school and town are closely linked. I'm concerned on the impact of the town if there is no Kids nearby. And I'm concerned about the building usage after the school is closed
# 362:
8:38 pm PDT, Sep 11,
Name not displayed, Virginia
Clifton ES is the heart of the community. It is where people meet others, where our children form friendships and not a long bus ride/drive/walk for most in the community. Two of my children have attended the school. I feel that splitting up the community would not be good for the students nor the community itself.
Clifton ES is the heart of the community. It is where people meet others, where our children form friendships and not a long bus ride/drive/walk for most in the community. Two of my children have attended the school. I feel that splitting up the community would not be good for the students nor the community itself.
# 361:
11:44 am PDT, Sep 11,
Matt Coleman, Virginia
I am now a freshmen at Fairfield University in Connecticut and still remember the good times I had at Clifton Elementary. This school is not only a place of education but is a shelter from the outside. Clifton is a community, a community that is unlike any of those that we call our neighbor. While at Clifton Elementary I met three of my best friends. To this day we are all still extremely close and talk about the good times that we had while at Clifton. I would still consider all three of them to be my closest friends. When entering Robinson and various other surrounding public schools Clifton provided a sense of community while there. I went to Robinson knowing that no matter what I still had my three closest friends to watch out for me and each other. Lets be honest, the outside world is a bit more rough then Clifton could ever be which is why I felt safe even during my years there. My little brother did not have the opportunity to go to Clifton Elementary and I always told him how sorry I was for him. Clifton provided me with a sense of community and life long friends. There is not one kid that passes through that school who doesn't have a strong moral code and good character. Do not take away this school, do not take away my child-hood memories and do not rob future generations of the chance to know what a true community feels like. Thank you, Matt Coleman
I am now a freshmen at Fairfield University in Connecticut and still remember the good times I had at Clifton Elementary. This school is not only a place of education but is a shelter from the outside. Clifton is a community, a community that is unlike any of those that we call our neighbor. While at Clifton Elementary I met three of my best friends. To this day we are all still extremely close and talk about the good times that we had while at Clifton. I would still consider all three of them to be my closest friends. When entering Robinson and various other surrounding public schools Clifton provided a sense of community while there. I went to Robinson knowing that no matter what I still had my three closest friends to watch out for me and each other. Lets be honest, the outside world is a bit more rough then Clifton could ever be which is why I felt safe even during my years there. My little brother did not have the opportunity to go to Clifton Elementary and I always told him how sorry I was for him. Clifton provided me with a sense of community and life long friends. There is not one kid that passes through that school who doesn't have a strong moral code and good character. Do not take away this school, do not take away my child-hood memories and do not rob future generations of the chance to know what a true community feels like. Thank you, Matt Coleman
# 360:
10:17 am PDT, Sep 11,
Donna Di Silvio, Virginia
# 359:
10:13 am PDT, Sep 11,
Donna McGrath, Virginia
This Elementary School beside being one of the best elementary school in the county also provides a sense of community for the children and citizens. The strengh of a community is expanded by having a elementary school as part of the local fabric. Separating children from the local school fragments children and community.
This Elementary School beside being one of the best elementary school in the county also provides a sense of community for the children and citizens. The strengh of a community is expanded by having a elementary school as part of the local fabric. Separating children from the local school fragments children and community.
# 358:
9:22 am PDT, Sep 11,
Name not displayed, Virginia
Clifton Elementary School is our area base school, and is where my daughter's girl scout troop has met for the past 7 years for just $5 for each year fee. We use the school for meeting facilities as well as for regular school activities. It's also part of the Robinson cluster, which was an important factor in our living here because my son is in the IB program at Robinson high school. Thank you for your efforts.
Clifton Elementary School is our area base school, and is where my daughter's girl scout troop has met for the past 7 years for just $5 for each year fee. We use the school for meeting facilities as well as for regular school activities. It's also part of the Robinson cluster, which was an important factor in our living here because my son is in the IB program at Robinson high school. Thank you for your efforts.
# 357:
7:39 am PDT, Sep 9,
Terri Grabb, Virginia
Clifton Elementary is more than just a school. Having this school in our town has allowed for our community to knit together and serve one another in a manner that is unusual in large areas such as ours. It has taught my children more than education but also values and placed within them a desire to serve others. Please don't close Clifton Elementary!
Clifton Elementary is more than just a school. Having this school in our town has allowed for our community to knit together and serve one another in a manner that is unusual in large areas such as ours. It has taught my children more than education but also values and placed within them a desire to serve others. Please don't close Clifton Elementary!
# 356:
8:23 am PDT, Sep 2,
Jerry Hopkins, Virginia
We moved to Clifton to give our children a great educational experience. The potential closing of this school would be detrimental to their current development not to mention the impact on real estate and the newly revitalized town. I hope the school board can get past their egos.
We moved to Clifton to give our children a great educational experience. The potential closing of this school would be detrimental to their current development not to mention the impact on real estate and the newly revitalized town. I hope the school board can get past their egos.
# 355:
9:41 am PDT, Aug 28,
Judy VanBibber (McClendon), Missouri
# 354:
7:57 pm PDT, Aug 27,
Emily Fisher, Virginia
You Cant close it. I love it and this is the school i went to for ever!
You Cant close it. I love it and this is the school i went to for ever!
# 353:
7:44 am PDT, Aug 27,
Lambull Dean, Virginia
No wonder the place made me sick...why didn't they have bottled water when I had to go there in the 60's...I glow in the dark. What I miss most is the trips to the bomb shelter with Mr. Norris.
No wonder the place made me sick...why didn't they have bottled water when I had to go there in the 60's...I glow in the dark. What I miss most is the trips to the bomb shelter with Mr. Norris.
# 352:
2:27 pm PDT, Aug 24,
Debbie Mori, Virginia
Clifton Elementary school is like a small community. I have been a school bus driver at the school for 8 years now and know lots of the children and all the teachers in the school how many other schools could that be possible? Save Clifton Elementary!
Clifton Elementary school is like a small community. I have been a school bus driver at the school for 8 years now and know lots of the children and all the teachers in the school how many other schools could that be possible? Save Clifton Elementary!
# 351:
7:50 am PDT, Aug 24,
Marsha Wolber, Virginia
My family moved back from California for the great educational opportunities at Clifton Elementary and Robinson Secondary. Both my children graduated from Clifton and Robinson. Clifton Elementary is a GREAT school .. perfect in size and condition. Clifton Elementary is the glue that binds our Clifton and Fairfax Station communities together. Please don't punish our communities children by closing it! Fairfax County should be proud to have such a great school.
My family moved back from California for the great educational opportunities at Clifton Elementary and Robinson Secondary. Both my children graduated from Clifton and Robinson. Clifton Elementary is a GREAT school .. perfect in size and condition. Clifton Elementary is the glue that binds our Clifton and Fairfax Station communities together. Please don't punish our communities children by closing it! Fairfax County should be proud to have such a great school.
