CUTTING SCHOOLS If our kids don’t see the spikes, how will they get the message that we want them to stay in school? “On Thursday, fencing contractors clipped the last strand of barbed wire at Scott Elementary School, wrapping up a three-month project to rid 68 schools of nearly 100,000 feet of the sharp stuff. Some parents praised the move to give campuses more curb appeal, while others said they feared criminals would be more tempted to break in without the barbed wire. . . . The speedy removal of the barbed wire across HISD cost nearly $147,000. Many of the campuses will get entirely new fencing in the next 18 months thanks to the 2007 voter-approved bond, said Dick Lindsay, the district’s chief business officer. Black vinyl fencing will replace the old, rusted chain-link around the campuses, while more expensive wrought-iron — traditionally found at schools in wealthier neighborhoods — will grace the front of the buildings.” [Houston Chronicle]
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I have major reservations about this initiative. Such protective measures are warranted in this crime-ridden area. Not to mention that many of these students will spend time behind barbed wire fences as adults and need to adjust to this eventuality at an early age.
I have major reservations about this initiative. Such protective measures are warranted in this crime-ridden area. Not to mention that many of these students will spend time behind barbed wire fences as adults and need to adjust to this eventuality at an early age.
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Some of us do become what we’re told we are. No doubt your parents told you what a snotty little asshole you were.
If you don’t live in Southampton, you should. Although given its nickname of Enronville, I’d be careful about talking about people belonging behind barbed wire.
Landed Gent’s comments are usually satirical in nature. That’s my impression, anyway.
Landed Gent’s comments are usually satirical in nature.
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As are mine. Sometimes.
$147,000 / 68 schools = $2,161.76 per school.
Tools needed: bolt cutters, ladder, leather gloves.
Add in the small profit from the scrap yard for the waste metal.
I could have done it for half that price and still had time to take a nap. Of course, this was probably another mafia-esque transaction between politicians (school board) and another crooked Houston contractor.
What a ripoff!
Of course, this was probably another mafia-esque transaction between politicians (school board) and another crooked Houston contractor.
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What are friends, and campaign contributors, for?
The whole time I was in school, I never noticed what the outside building or campus looked like. I guess I was too depressed by the interior classrooms to care.
Most people who care are the homeowners (or renters) who live in the neighborhood.
$2,100 per campus isn’t a lot of money to abate the perimeter razorwire…unless you’re thinking in 1955 terms.
new perimeter fences around schools will be nice. anything to help the curb appeal of the city is a good investment for everyone.