I support the upcoming bond issue for several reasons. Most importantly, I believe this new elementary school, new science building and a new heating and cooling system at the middle school is the right thing for our schools and communities of Iola, Gas and LaHarpe. For years, we have spent so much money fixing up and making do, but it hardly shows because theyre only repairs. The savings we will have on maintenance and concentration of services will help us keep our good teachers and attract new ones, as well as bring new educational material into the classrooms.
I also believe new school buildings will spur economic growth, and for sure, pride in our schools that has been lacking for years now. The last time we voted to build a new school was in 1976, almost 50 years ago. Renovations were a long time ago, too. Weve been treading water, making do, patching up for the lifetime of the kids who are in our schools today. I hope voters will take the time to visit the buildings so they can see the urgent need.
I helped with a high school forensics meet several weeks ago and had the opportunity to see how out-of-date our science building is. I was disappointed that students from 19 schools that Saturday witnessed the sad state of that building. Everyone knows how much the world of science and technology has changed. We have gone from the slide rule era when the science building was built to technology that fits in the palm of your hand. Change is the only constant. USD 257 has to catch up its facilities and prepare for the future.
The very first thing families with young children do when considering a move is check out a towns schools. Too often I have heard that some family chose another town over Iola because of how our schools looked on the outside. They often dont have the time to speak with teachers or see all the good our wonderful community has to offer. Companies introducing executives to town also have this problem. We need to show that we care about education by providing up-to-date facilities.
This project will never be any cheaper. Every year we wait, the price will increase, and we take the chance the state will decrease its 35 percent commitment. I believe tax-paying adults have a responsibility to provide the best education possible in the best environment possible. Someone invested in our education back when we went to school. Now its our turn to step up.
Just OK is not OK. We are at a turning point to prove we believe in this community and its future. This problem is ours alone to solve, and we can do it. We need to invest in our kids. Theyre worth it.
Lets get this done! Please join me in voting YES for our schools on April 2.
