When are economics and public support going to mesh in such a manner that a bond issue to build new schools in Iola will find favor with voters?
Thirty-three years ago a proposal to construct new junior and senior high schools came up. Eventually, proponents dropped back to plan B and in the 1990s both schools were remodeled, giving cosmetic cover that mask what lies beneath.
About 15 years later, another push occurred for new schools but the recession reared its ugly head and then Supt. of Schools Craig Neuenswander pulled the plug, knowing that perception, which in part the recession was as far as a bond issue was concerned, trumped reality, and a vote had next to no chance of succeeding.
A couple or three years later, with fresh enthusiasm among a good number of folks, a plan that would have put district education at the top end of any southeast Kansas — right up there with Chanute — was put to a vote.
Proponents preached its virtues including how the state would front 49 percent of the bill.
The issue fell flat.
Moving from so-called neighborhood schools to an inclusive campus at the north edge of town was cited by some opponents. Others thought the cost was excessive. And some didn’t like the idea of having so many age groups of students congregated at one location.
Ultimately, whatever their reasons, voters spoke loudly.
Now, we still are faced with schools that need much in the way of climate-control systems, roofs, ways to accommodate state-of-the-art technology and, franky, buildings that are designed to provide a modern means of educating children, not one stuck in the early 20th century.
SO, HERE’S the question: Do we continue to plod along with patchwork upgrades or do we bite the bullet and try again for a comprehensive plan?
And while we dilly-dally, our children are suffering, not physically, except when a room may be stifling hot or frigidly cold, but with the wherewithal to take advantage of modern aspects of education that will propel them to sterling careers in whatever discipline that whets their interest.
We know that Abe Lincoln read by candlelight and that any number of older folks will brag about learning their three R’s in a one-room schoolhouse.
We understand that much can be accomplished by taking personal responsibility to applying onself.
We also understand that many children need a special nudge and gain immense advantage by having what those of us who remember World War II didn’t even conceive of enjoying.
