During a recent government meeting, community representatives voiced concerns about the deteriorating conditions of local schools, highlighting urgent issues such as leaking roofs, mold, and broken plumbing. Charlie Halpern, a member of the Global Cross Parent Teacher Association, emphasized the critical state of the facilities, stating, \"Our school is rotting from the inside.\"

Halpern, alongside fellow officer Kat Gomez Stafford, detailed the association's efforts to engage the community through various events and initiatives aimed at supporting the school. They noted that despite their commitment and the dedication of teachers, the physical environment is hindering educational efforts.

The meeting also included a call for representatives from ABM and SJ Services to speak, but no one from those organizations attended. This absence raised questions about accountability and support for the schools in question.

Halpern's testimony underscored a broader sentiment among parents and community members who are increasingly frustrated with the lack of resources and attention to the pressing needs of their schools. The urgency of the situation was palpable, as Halpern called for immediate action to address the crisis, stating, \"I don't know how we got here.\"

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue discussions on how to improve the conditions of local schools and support the dedicated educators working within them.