Concerns Of Walking Families Continue In Fairfield Redistricting Talks

FAIRFIELD, CT — As the Fairfield Board of Education continues its discussions on the future of redistricting the public school system, one theme has been repeated time and again, do not adversely impact walking families.

During a virtual public hearing Thursday night, the board heard from about a dozen speakers who all spoke of the virtues of students and their parents, particularly at the elementary level, walking to school daily.

"Walking is a great, free health gift to give to your children," said Fairfield parent Danielle Gelfand, one of several parents who said they moved to Fairfield, in part, due to the ability to walk to school with their children.

Fairfield's redistricting initiative, which, if implemented, would not take effect until the 2024-25 school year, is under discussion because of a racial imbalance in at least one of its elementary schools. Additionally, the school system is also experiencing overcrowding in some elementary schools, and under-utilization in others.

"We want to keep kids as close to their schools as possible," said board member Christine Vitale, adding that the board hears the concerns of walkers.

Board Vice-Chair Nick Ayssah agreed, and sought to calm some of the parents concerns that walkers might be negatively impacted by redistricting efforts..

"The board is not targeting walkers," Ayssah said.

The district has hired a consulting firm to help it determine various scenarios surrounding redistricting, but officials acknowledge that the prospect makes many families anxious over how their children will be impacted.

"People need to understand that these discussions need to happen," said Schools Superintendent Michael Testani, stressing that the state is mandating action.

Discussions on redistricting are set to continue throughout 2023, according to officials.