In a recent Parkway School District meeting, community members voiced concerns about the maintenance of school grounds and traffic issues surrounding the district's facilities.

One parent highlighted the efforts of families who volunteered to improve the grounds of Wren Elementary School, noting that the lack of Parkway employees available for upkeep has led to community members stepping in. The parent expressed worry that the new Early Childhood Center (ECC) could face similar neglect unless a robust maintenance plan is established. They emphasized the need for the district to take responsibility for existing structures and not rely solely on community volunteers, especially as the demands on parents of young children can be overwhelming.

Traffic congestion during school events was another significant topic of discussion. A resident described ongoing traffic problems during drop-off and pick-up times, particularly during a recent strings event at Southwest Middle School. They reported severe backups that blocked driveways and created unsafe conditions. The resident urged the district to reconsider the location of the new ECC, citing the potential for increased traffic and safety concerns.

Wayne Hartman, another community member, raised general safety issues, urging parents to remain vigilant about their children's safety in public spaces. He shared a recent incident involving inappropriate behavior by individuals towards children, stressing the importance of awareness and caution.

Angela Castro, an employee of the early childhood program, spoke in favor of the new ECC, advocating for its necessity while acknowledging the community's concerns.

The discussions reflect a growing need for the Parkway School District to address maintenance and safety issues proactively, ensuring that both school facilities and surrounding areas are adequately managed for the benefit of students and families.