Local History by Dede Terns-Thorpe - TOWNS’ JEALOUSY CITED AND SCHOOL APPEAL IS OUSTED

An interesting article was found in the April 21, 1932, Cairo Herald newspaper about the centralization of the HTC School and a few of the problems they encountered along the way.

“TOWNS’ JEALOUSY CITED AND SCHOOL APPEAL IS OUSTED.”

“Dr. Frank P. Graves, state commissioner of education, has dismissed the appeal brought by a group of taxpayers in Greene County against the formation of a central school district in the towns of Hunter, Jewett, and Lexington. His decision was based on the fact that, “Jealousy between Hunter and Tannersville is really at the bottom of this controversy.”

The article said that the decision is regarded as important in education as it involves 20 districts and is one of the largest central districts to be brought about in years. The merger included Tannersville, and Hunter, two of the largest areas in the Catskill region.

It said Dr. Graves had laid out the new district after it was requested by the taxpayers a year ago. The new district was approved at a taxpayer meeting on April 29, 1931. The final designation of the district and its board of education was signed June 11, 1931.

His decision states there was no failure to comply with the law, and the appeal was not made for 4 months after the meeting for the establishment of the district.

“Apparently,” Dr. Graves declares, “at some time subsequent to the meeting held on April 29, 1931, and before the date of the taking of this appeal, a change of sentiment occurred among certain voters which may have been brought about in part by the election of members of the board of education from one portion of the district to the exclusion of the another portion of such district. The 2 principal villages in the district are Tannersville and Hunter. It seems to me that jealousy between these 2 communities is really at the bottom of this controversy. The appeal is dismissed.”

The building of a centralized school in Tannersville was the elected decision made by taxpayers.

It was about 90 years ago that our stately HTC high school building was built and it is still successful in preparing students for the world after graduation.

Thanks for reading. Stay safe and be careful

Dede Terns-Thorpe/Hunterhistorian@gmail.com