Kids deserve thriving school
Ten years ago, my family moved to our lake cabin seeking a better quality of life for our four children. We visited and researched area schools, and made the choice to stay in the Nevis district. Later when we looked for a different home, staying near to the school was the biggest factor in our property choice - not because of open enrollment, but because our children were happy and active and we wanted to save transportation time. Our tax dollars remain in the Nevis district because of the quality of education our children receive.
Property values have escalated at an alarming rate, but so has the long-term value of our home. Our income has not increased as fast as our taxes, so should we join the band wagon that says, "No taxes to house Open Enrollment children?" Absolutely not! Open enrollment brings substantial revenue to Nevis and ensures course selection and class sizes that create quality. Without the open enrollment students in Nevis, college prep courses and vocational opportunities would be greatly limited.
Nevis is committed to being a strong two-section school for the benefit of students and taxpayers. The facility is not fancy, but it is solid conservative construction. The proposed construction the bond allows will be an extension of this same basic plan. It is not a perk being asked for - it is basic bare bones needs. The bond isn't for operating dollars - the district remains solid financially due to good management by the school board. The bond referendum is about producing construction dollars. It will complete the long-range plan to bring about compliance with handicap accessibility, elimination of temporary and off-site classrooms and energy efficiency improvements.
We see first hand the great job administration and staff do to utilize every square inch of space, and to ensure students thrive. But there is a limit to how much "making-do with what we have" can last. It is time to get this construction bond passed. The investment is a good one for the future of our school and for the taxpayers.
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Skip and Lori Gooch
Nevis
