I disagree with many of the views expressed by Mr. Harrington in his Feb. 17 letter about the International School and the lottery to admit new students.

He seemed to take particular offense at the “sibling slots” stating that they are an expression of “preferential treatment.”

I don’t see how being admitted because you can walk to school is any less preferential than being admitted because your family already has roots here.

An older sibling child still has to earn a spot through the lottery like everyone else for the younger sibling to attend, or the younger student must “win” a spot in order for the older sibling to come here.

The lottery ideal fits with the International school mission.

As Mr. Harrington seems to want very much for his son to attend school here, I would ask him “why?” Do you want to be a part of this because of our sense of community? The

lottery and “sibling slot” system, is every bit as much a part of that as our SAT scores are.

Elena Becker, 8th grade, International School