Now is the time to vote yes. What happened in the past is over with and we have to move on. It is a new administration and they want what is best for the kids. We can't change the past but we can certainly change the future, our future, our children's future and our grandchildren's future. I was a no voter; I changed my mind. I have children that go to Park Rapids Schools and I want them to keep going there.
If you own a business, think of what will happen to it if this does not pass. Property values will dramatically decline and retaining quality professionals and service providers will be difficult. Families may relocate to other communities that will provide the opportunities that the students want and need.
Take it upon yourselves; get educated and get the facts. Stop listening to the rumors. Call superintendent Glen Chiodo. He can give you the facts. Since 2000, $4.5 million has already been cut; an additional $750,000 will be cut in 2007. Since the cuts began 41.4 certified teaching positions, 23 non-certified positions and eight bus routes have already been cut; six to eight more teaching positions will be eliminated making class sizes even bigger than they are now. All co-curricular activities will be eliminated; drama, pep band, speech, National Honor Society and sports to name a few.
Let's step up to the plate and give our kids what they deserve, a future.
Laura Bensen
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