In my capacity as executive director of Parents United for Public Schools, I had the distinct privilege of speaking at a school levy forum earlier this week. Parents United is a statewide organization committed to Minnesota's leadership in quality public education and as such, I spend a great deal of time traveling around the state talking with parents and other citizens about their schools.
The talk around the state is about Park Rapids and its upcoming levy. People wonder how your community will respond to the decision to pass a local levy or consider doing away with all co-curricular activities.
I wondered if I would find a city that had simply given up on its children, but I found a vibrant, engaged, passionate, knowledgeable community that understood what a watershed moment this is for them.
The speakers that evening were filled with insight and understanding of the relationship between great schools and great communities. They spoke about the Park Rapids Area Schools with pride and passion.
I was especially moved by the young high school student who spoke of her worries and concerns not for herself but for her younger sisters. To sit in that auditorium and hear her beg for her sisters' future was humbling.
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It is important for you to hear from an outsider that the eyes of Minnesota are on Park Rapids as you struggle to make your decision on Nov. 7. I wish your children and your wonderful community the best.
Mary Cecconi, Parents United for Public Schools executive director
