By Bert Gambini & Ashley Hassett
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wbfo/local-wbfo-952709.mp3
Buffalo, NY – Parents protesting the closing of Campus West School met with Buffalo State President Aaron Podolefsky Tuesday afternoon.
The meeting took place in an effort for both sides to come to an understanding. Campus West is located on the Buff State campus.
The meeting had ended with Podolefsky agreeing to meet with Buffalo Schools superintendent James Williams.
Campus West Parent Darlene Hirsch says she is concerned that parents were not given the option to move their children to a new building with their same classmates.
Podolsfky in fact contacted Williams following the meeting. He issued a written statement saying as result of their phone conversation, he is comfortable communicating again that the decision is final and that it was mutually agreed upon with district to allow the Campus West lease to expire.
Here is the full statement issued by Podlesfsky on Tuesday's Meeting:
"It was a pleasure to meet and listen to the concerns of a few Campus West parents and grandparents today. I want to acknowledge the dedication of these individuals the passion they have displayed for their children's education is admirable. At the request of the group, we contacted Dr. Williams late this afternoon to review the decision one last time.
As a result of that phone call, I am comfortable communicating again that the mutual decision announced in June 2010 by the Buffalo Public Schools and Buffalo State College to allow the Campus West lease to expire is final. I urge those concerned to continue to work with Dr. Williams and the Buffalo Board of Education to ensure the best possible educational experience for their children. We wish them the best."