I can no longer stay silent. I am compelled to speak out for all the Federal Way residents and taxpayers who, justifiably, wonder what actual maintenance has been done on our aging schools over the years.

How could our schools be in such disrepair? Roof issues, mold, mildew, sinking floors, broken ceiling tiles, uneven temperatures … all fixable problems, unless upkeep and maintenance were not done, or not done properly. Where is the pride of ownership in our schools?

Many of our homes are older than 40 years and most continue to be livable, welcoming and cozy. Why? Because the owners cared and performed regular maintenance or made fixes at the first sign of a problem.

I truly believe a serious breakdown in regular facility maintenance and management is to blame for the dire circumstances we now must face. Shame on the school district for allowing this to happen.

Bonnie Nowicki, Federal Way