I’m embarrassed to admit that I didn’t submit my vote for the school levy in 2015. For one thing, I don’t have kids in the school system and felt that I lacked a direct connection to the decision. I also just assumed that the levy would pass, because it was inconceivable to me that Cook County voters would let our kids and our school down. When the results were announced the next day I was ashamed of myself for being complacent and for not doing my part. Since then I’ve taken some time to learn about the school bond and referendum that will be on the ballot this November. I’ve researched why both funding sources are needed, what each will pay for and what the consequences will be if they fail. On the chopping block will be electives like music, Spanish, and the culinary arts; extra-curricular activities like Knowledge Bowl; athletic programs; student support including a guidance counselor, school nurse and social services. If the levy fails, class sizes will go up and the support mechanisms for our excellent teachers will go down. If the bond fails, our schools will lack the funding required to maintain and secure the school facility, to upgrade computers and provide safe transportation to and from school.
Looking back on my history as a student learning to read and write at Sawtooth Elementary and as a proud graduate of Cook County High School, it was not just the quality of the teachers who guided me through, it was having access to a rich variety of activities that helped me to be successful. For me, writing, the arts and theater was my lifeline. For others it was gymnastics, basketball or football that made them who they are today. By voting “yes” and “yes” this November we will not only be investing in the current educational needs of our kids, we will be investing in the future success of our county. They are not other people’s kids, they are our future.
Staci L. Drouillard
Grand Marais, MN
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