Dear editor,
I am excited about the possibility of new schools in our area, and want to voice my support! I am grateful for the thought and work that has been put forth by our school board in exploring and preparing this plan for our children. Here is my top 10 list of things I love about new schools in Iola:
1. Clean air. Asbestos, old paint, mold, old pipes, and other aging building materials found in our schools, are things that concern me. Our children spend so many hours at school, and air quality is important for them developing healthy bodies and minds.
2. A building accessible to all. I am excited for school buildings that will allow our children that need physical assistance to be able to navigate their way easily and comfortably in their school environment.
3. Safe entries. Glass doorways and walls in school entries will allow administration to screen visitors and help keep our children safe.
4. Location. The new site’s location on the bike path, and nearness to neighborhoods will allow many of our children to bike or walk to school. And its convenient street location will aid those who come by car.
5. More space. Space is needed when our children need specialized instruction out of the classroom. Currently we use hallway floors, but our children need an open area with tables and chairs.
6. Creative atmosphere. New school design is full of color and fun! I am excited for our children to be inspired to higher learning by the atmosphere of their school.
7. A cafeteria. It will be nice for our children to have a space for food preparation and service, and not have their food shipped daily by truck.
8. Curb appeal. A nicer building of education is a credit to any town and shows we care about our children and the future.
9. Technology. Technology monies formerly used up by old building maintenance, would be available to be spent on new books and technology. Our children will grow in understanding and appreciation as they have opportunities to explore and experience more technology in the classroom.
10. Teachers. Our children need great teachers. Beautiful buildings attract great teachers. Let’s build some beautiful schools for our children.
I hope we will all choose to vote on Nov. 4 to invest in our children: Yes to the school bond + Yes to the half-cent sales tax = new schools for our children.
Sincerely, and with much hope for the future and our children!
Robyn Fawson,
Iola, Kan.
Dear editor,
I have read many articles, opinions and letters regarding the lack of money needed for education in the near future of the state of Kansas. If our present governor is re-elected the money situation is predicted to get worse. If we have a new governor, he will be hamstrung because he will be dealing with the same congress that helped create this mess of shortfalls. Regardless of who wins, the future for our school children, teachers and all others associated with education appears glum.
Thus, I worry about us being able to afford new schools in Iola as well as concerns about the location of such schools north of town.
Who would be responsible for helping our kids should alarm be raised? Do we use the same law enforcement, ambulances and fire trucks when the schools are out of the city limits? Can they arrive as fast as the ones in town? I pray as do we all that the need never arises.
This letter is not meant to ignore the problems outlined by the school board. I believe they are good people and like everyone in the district, they also want a great education for all our children.
Many suggested alternatives would also cut costs and still provide an excellent education for our children. These alternatives need to be re-examined and others considered. They could be the boon needed by everyone.
I humbly ask the following suggestions be considered:
• Work on one building at a time. Displaced students could be put in alternate accommodations until their building is completed. Then work on another.
• Regarding new technology equipment, we should check with Humboldt as they are part of a pilot program that did not require a new building.
• We have many talented musicians in our community. Why haven’t you asked them to help the music teachers so all students get an equal education? We all know the power and pleasure of music.
• Have you tried to correct some of the situations that had parents remove their children to be home-schooled? Boredom and being bullied should not be acceptable in school.
• Costs for utilities might be migrated if solar panels were installed. They are also good for the environment.
I am glad that parents have been asked to help in the classroom. Educating children has always required the input of both parents and teachers.
I ask again is this a good move for all and can we afford it?
Sincerely,
Ruth Lee Jackson,
LaHarpe
