On Feb. 7 the decision will be made concerning MACCRAY's referendum.
We have had meetings, polls, facts and opinions on Facebook and letters to the editor. Yet there are still unanswered questions and contradictions. But now with all we've heard and read we have to make a decision.
I will be a "no" vote. I am sincerely not convinced that we are in need of this single campus facility. And here's why.
There are still too many unknowns and other long-term issues to consider. I question future enrollment numbers which have dropped significantly since our schools combined. Should we be investing in new buildings or technology, curriculum and teaching staff?
MACCRAY West has been recognized as a Reward School for five years. Why would we want to completely rearrange the structure? Considering current economics, can district residents afford this significant tax burden? How will this affect the passing of our next operating referendum? Will it lead us to decline that tax increase?
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Operating referendums fund teaching salaries, books, computers and extracurricular activities which also contribute to student success.
With today's technology, why can't teachers collaborate from multiple sites? Businesses do this every day. I know firsthand of a business (Impact Innovations) that was willing to invest in an old VSC building and support multiple sites instead of just expanding new in Maynard. Multiple sites have worked out for both that business and our communities.
It's the people, the staff and students that will make our district successful, not the size or locations of the buildings.
The division a decision like this can create between communities can have negative impact for years to come.
I do believe in putting students first and I do not appreciate those who imply if we don't support a new building we are not supporting what is best for kids. I am voting for what I believe long term is best for our students and our communities. I am voting no!
Ann Dammermann
Maynard
