Supporters for new schools got a sound thumping in Tuesday’s election. THE CAMPAIGN for new schools brought to light some unseemly facts about education in Iola, including: GOING FORWARD — and we must — it’s imperative we keep the education of our children as our top priority.
By an almost 2-to-1 margin voters rebuked the idea for several likely reasons, the topmost being they do not want to pay higher sales and property taxes.
That same reason can be applied to Gov. Sam Brownback’s re-election. Voters said yes to an administration whose goal is to eliminate the personal income tax at the risk of running the state into bankruptcy and taking down with it our schools, roads, and social service programs.
More and more we are a nation who puts personal concerns — and pocketbooks — ahead of the greater good.
Part of the opposition to new schools was a faction who said it would be better to renovate our current schools rather than build new.
It’s imperative that coalition start immediately on furthering that idea with school officials, now that new schools are off the table.
Fort Scott citizens approved $40.8 million in renovations to its four schools in Tuesday’s vote. The money will go to upgrade classrooms and improve security at its two elementary schools, middle school and high school, as well as update its football field.
As Fort Scott illustrates, even touchups don’t come cheap and those in Iola promoting renovations will face a monumental task convincing voters it will be good use of their money.
1) Those with special needs children know how inadequate current schools are;
2) Our teachers are paid considerably less than neighboring districts; and,
3) A disproportionate amount of the school district’s budget goes to utilities and maintenance because of our aging facilities.
Not exactly qualities that would entice prospective teachers or families with school-age children.
It must be the best we can do.
They deserve nothing less.
— Susan Lynn
Tuesday takeaways
