ROYAL SCHOOL BOND

Our family moved to Royal City three years ago from Idaho, and I was immediately impressed by the community, the schools, and most importantly the people from Royal City.

Our children quickly adjusted to Royal schools, and I have been amazed ever since with the students and educators who give so much of their time and energy teaching my kids.

Like most great communities, we have challenges that can divide us in many ways if we let it happen. So I wanted to give the perspective of a teenage kid who felt like the community let me down.

I grew up in a neighboring community, very similar to Royal City. We had serious needs for new facilities, and the bond conversations began.

It quickly became the hot button, and lines of separation were drawn between people for and against the bond. I didn't pay much attention at the time because I really did not understand how a bond would affect my teenage life.

But I quickly found out.

Our bond failed and, because of the divisiveness developed during the bond discussion, the levy that followed failed as well. We, the student body, soon discovered how this division would affect us.

We suddenly would no longer have any extra-curricular activities. No FBLA, no FFA, no sports, no drama, nothing. We suffered at the expense of those who felt like they needed to make a point on any number of issues.

Many years have passed, and my perspective and understanding have changed considerably of bonds, levies and life, but the lesson still stands. I understand concerns about higher taxes, excessive spending, leading by example, overcrowding, and many more.

But I do not want my children or any other child to feel betrayed the way we were. I also know that the only way we solve real problems is working together and finding solutions.

This bond addresses many of the issues that need to be solved in our community- space for growing class sizes, better environments, stronger resources, and schools that we are proud to invite others to see. Join me and vote yes for the future of Royal.

Brandon Jenks

Royal City