This week the Suffolk School Board approved a capital improvement plan that calls for the construction of a new elementary school in the south end of the city.

The school will replace both the Robertson and Holland schools, merging the school bodies into one school.

During the contentious process of deciding to consolidate these schools in the spring, both Whaleyville and Holland were nervous, thinking they would be the ones to lose a school and with it, part of their identity.

In small communities throughout the country, their school and their churches are often the centers of the community, providing a place for fellowship and a place to showcase civic pride.

The decision to merge these schools was the right decision. We have said so many times and applaud the school board for making such a tough decision. They understand the impact such a decision has had and will have in these communities.

sBut, now that the board has approved the plan and construction planning can now get under way, it is important for the board to build community support in both Whaleyville and Holland.

And it is important for community leaders in both of these areas to now come together and support the school board. The acceptance of this new school is probably just as important as the brick and mortar used in its construction just as lack of support is equally as destructive.

If done correctly, this new school and the image it carries can be a blessing for everyone as well as a savings for the school system.