During a recent Board of Education meeting, students and community members voiced urgent concerns regarding the deteriorating conditions at Dunlagan Middle School and the need for immediate renovations. The school, built in 1973, is currently operating at 112% capacity, with classrooms overcrowded and hallways congested, leading to safety issues and a chaotic environment for students.

Testimonies highlighted significant problems, including inadequate lunchroom space, malfunctioning HVAC systems, and poor acoustics that hinder communication during emergencies. Students reported feeling unsafe due to overcrowding, with some classrooms housing up to 30 students, far exceeding the recommended limit of 16. The lack of proper facilities has also led to a shortage of bathrooms, with a staggering ratio of 54 students per toilet.

Alexandra Nelius, a sixth grader, described the school as \"falling apart,\" citing pest infestations and a lack of natural light that contributes to a gloomy atmosphere. Other students echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the negative impact of the physical environment on their learning experience and overall well-being.

Community members expressed frustration over the prioritization of other schools for renovations, particularly Oakland Mills Middle School, which has been moved ahead in the capital improvement schedule despite Dunlagan's more pressing needs. Parents and local residents called for transparency and equity in the decision-making process, urging the board to honor previous commitments to renovate Dunlagan.

Chris Fuchs, a local resident, underscored the exhaustion felt by the community regarding the ongoing delays and miscommunication surrounding the renovation plans. He urged board members to consider the overwhelming evidence of Dunlagan's dire condition and to act decisively to address the urgent needs of its students.

As the meeting concluded, the call for action was clear: the Dunlagan community demands immediate attention and resources to ensure a safe and conducive learning environment for its students. The board's next steps will be crucial in determining the future of Dunlagan Middle School and the well-being of its students.