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Does consolidation need to happen? Yes! Was this whole procedure handled in the most professional way? No! I am disappointed with the outcome, but now, we as parents need to make sure this transition is handled the correct way. The kids who have the most to lose, are those who would and do attend Veterans Memorial HS. They are the ones who will be separated from friends and perhaps teachers. The Pilgrim and Tollgate kids will continue in their same buildings with the same friends they have had all throughout their elementary years. My concern is the reception these kids will get when they transition from Vets to their new school. I have grave concerns. Who will be there for these kids? That first year of transition will be very difficult, even with the support of teachers and parents. The culture of Warwick is such that parents and grandparents talk about the rivalry between the schools. Can that culture be changed? Yes! Will it happen overnight, no! or within a year? I seriously doubt it. There was much talk about the best educational outcome of this decision. I agree, that should be the end result. But children who do not feel comfortable or even welcome in a school, are not going to be able to learn to their fullest potential. I am hoping before this change takes place, that conversations will take place amongst faculty and students as to what will make them all feel welcomed and included in their new environments.