The Vestaburg Community members have pride in their school and they should because we do make a difference in the lives of our students and community members. We have and will continue to earn academic accolades. Our athletic teams have been competitive in the league and in the state competitions.
But realistically, our facilities are in serious need of updating. They were designed in the time when schools were developed to support an industrial age. Historically, the educational process was a filter for students going on to college and for other students who would stay back and work in our factories. Unfortunately, factory jobs are no longer an option. It is imperative our students be prepared to compete for jobs in a global market. Our classrooms are not ready for digital technology. Relevance and rigor define the curriculum the state and the global economy are requiring for our students.
Our buildings were constructed when energy costs and security were not issues. Energy costs and the lack of security have finally caught up to Vestaburg Community Schools. For students to learn, they need a safe environment, providing a place where all students can learn. We need to spend money on education programs and not use a large percentage of the budget heating rooms constructed from 2-inch metal walls that conduct heat to the outside environment.
Students need to be able to work with our best teachers and work in a quality researched based learning environment. Staff and students should be able to move to buildings without risking their safety. Inclement weather, outsiders who are waiting for an opportunity or the driver who just did not pay attention to the “closed road sign” put students and staff at risk every day. More simply, the design of our buildings makes it possible for a visitor to enter the building undetected.
In the 1960's buildings were not constructed to last. They were built quickly and inexpensively. Our gym roof has exceeded its life expectancy. Our restrooms and locker rooms do not meet the standards needed for all students and community members. Our school buildings should inherently be providing all students with a passage not a barrier to the future.
We can make the improvements without costing the taxpayer a dime more. Electrical and mechanical improvements are being made now without increasing your taxes. Effective energy improvements will save the district an estimated $60,000 per year. The projected $60,000 can be used to pay on the improvements and to provide the tools students need. But we need more. Seven to 9 million dollars can be generated from extending the 1998 bond. The Vestaburg Community could have buildings constructed and remodeled which provide our students with a safe and comfortable place to learn, updated technology supporting a quality education, and meet the needs of the community without additional millage.
Come join us Thursday, November 20, 2008. The last in a series of community input meetings will begin at 6:00 in the high school media center. This is: An investment in your community without the increase in yearly taxes.