Small town pride seen in school support

Bonds and levies in our outlying areas of Lind, Wilson Creek, Othello, Warden and Ritzville were passing at the polls, according to unofficial results released Tuesday.

During post-election interviews with school superintendents, a key word that kept being uttered was "support." The respective communities knew how important it was to support their local schools. They turned out to do just that.

Lind, Wilson Creek, Othello, Warden and Ritzville ran routine maintenance and operations levies, which pay for items like light and gas bills and music programs, Warden Superintendent David LaBounty told the Columbia Basin Herald. Items the state doesn't fund are funded with the M&O levies.

Taxpayers in Warden and Lind stepped up in a big way because they were also asked to approve additional construction funds. In Warden, if the $500,000 capital request is officially approved, it funds technology upgrades and safety improvements at district facilities.

In Lind, the $4 million bond request is being designated for a new roof on Lind Elementary School, Lind-Ritzville Middle School and the school shop. Heating-cooling system upgrades for the buildings are also part of the request.

These are big dollar amounts to ask from voters, but clearly needed to adequately fund school operations and ensure students are learning in a safe, comfortable environment.

Small schools are special because of what they offer both students and community members.

Lower student figures mean kids are able to truly get involved in their school by staying busy. They can join an array of clubs and sports if they wish, or if they want to, focus more on academics and their future career goals.

A small town school is the center of activity for a community and a focal point for residents. It's where people gather to watch a Friday night basketball game, take part in a fall carnival, and see graduating seniors cross the stage to accept their diplomas. On Election Day Tuesday, taxpayers in Lind, Wilson Creek, Othello, Warden and Ritzville remembered how successful schools are tied to their towns' futures.

- Editorial board