To the editor:

You’d like to think that clocks and electronic message boards outside a school would: 1) provide the correct time; and 2) display legible communications.

Sadly, the structure featuring stopped clocks and quasi-functioning illuminated message boards on the grounds of the Kickemuit Middle School and prominently displayed to all and sundry passing on Child Street does neither.

In this day of ubiquitous timepieces — on wrists, car dashboards, cell phones and so on — do we really need stalled outdoor clocks as a dubious roadside attraction? Don’t even get me started on the half-lit, energy-gobbling, electronic message boards.

Given the ongoing neglect of these obvious problems, here are some suggestions: 1) Fix the damn things; or 2) Remove the whole structure and replace it with an attractive, non-electric, conservation-minded, stone or wooden sign noting only the school name.

Isn’t it about time? 

Rick Massie

Warren