Your input and ideas are critically important as we work to address the increasing challenge of overcrowding in our schools.
Strong schools are vital to the health and vibrancy of our community. Most importantly, however, this issue is about the students; the young people of our community who are depending upon us to develop a facilities plan that will meet their needs and ensure they are provided with the education they need and deserve.
During the past several weeks, discussions concerning a future bond proposition have once again been occurring throughout the Valley. Community patrons have been invited to offer ideas, input and suggestions as the school board considers a bond proposition for this coming spring. Two special board meetings during the week of Oct. 15, which were very well attended by community patrons, provided opportunity for conversation and community input. Individuals continue to offer ideas and comment by e-mailing us at schoolbond@svsd410.org.
The Facilities Task Force was reconvened in early October to advise the school board on preparation of a future bond proposition. During the past eight weeks, they have been working diligently to review enrollment projections and reconsider possible solutions to alleviate overcrowding in our schools. After a period of meticulous study in which they have made conscientious efforts to take into account feedback from the community, the task force has developed a set of scenarios that will receive further analysis in the next three weeks.
The task force is inviting all in the community to review these scenarios and offer more feedback before they make a final recommendation to the school board. Two community meetings are scheduled as follows:
Tuesday, Nov. 27, from 7-8:30 p.m. at Chief Kanim Middle School in Fall City;
Thursday, Nov. 29, from 7-8:30 p.m. at Snoqualmie Middle School.
The goal of the Facilities Task Force and the school board is to do what is best and right for kids. The bond proposition placed before the voters must also be responsive to the desires and values of our community. I ask that you help us ensure that the community has been heard, by offering your comments and ideas through e-mail to schoolbond@svsd410.org or by attending one of the meetings next week. Specific information concerning the work of the task force can be found by visiting the school district Web site at www.svsd410.org.
The final decision on the next bond proposal is a critically important one. In order to make the most appropriate decision for our children and our community, we need to hear from you.
Joel Aune is superintendent of the Snoqualmie Valley School District.
