Residents of the Glenville-Emmons School District are staring down some difficult decisions about the future shape of their schools. Which building will close &045; the Glenville elementary or Emmons middle school? How will the district deal with buildings in need of repair &045; fix them up or build new?

Residents must consider what options provide the best efficiency down the road, the most sensible use of tax money, and the best chance for the district to survive on its own &045; unless consolidation is something they find inevitable.

One thing that will only make the process harder, however, is the Glenville vs. Emmons rivalry that is already turning district residents against each other. No town wants to lose one of its schools; having a school is not only a matter of pride, but also a contribution to vitality. But if parents and district leaders want to serve the long-term interests of the school district and their communities, they will make a decision based on what’s best for the entire district without bad blood getting in the way.

Tribune editorials represent the opinion of the newspaper’s management and editorial staff.