To me, there is probably nothing more depressing than abandoned schools. Not that I myself have utterly sweet memories from my time in school per se, but independent of your political standpoint, background and current position, it is hard to ignore the metaphor that schools symbolizes the investment in the future. Parents, the society and the kids themselves somewhat agrees that this is a part of the path to become an adult.

Schools in decline are certainly more painful to watch than sinking businesses in the same areas. When the society cannot cater for the future of its kids, it signals the end of that society. However, when the number of kids are plummeting and the schools have to close due to this fact, it becomes even worse.
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