School bond: a great way to support critical areas in need

Our student population in Moses Lake continues to grow every year. The overcrowded elementary schools have required creativity in using current space. At Peninsula Elementary, the music class is now conducted on a stage adjoining the gym, rather than a classroom. At other schools, computer labs have been removed to provide needed class space, portables have been placed onsite, and split assemblies are conducted.

The current high school is in great need of improvements and renovations. Repairs to the roof, HVAC system and bathrooms, updating of several classrooms and general maintenance are just some of the areas needing attention.

A second high school is also required. This would relieve the situation of overcapacity at the current facility. The school district has again been resourceful in temporarily solving the problem by implementing an extended day schedule, having classrooms used by multiple teachers and utilizing online classes.

None of the solutions above are permanent. They are a temporary answer to a much larger problem. Our children deserve better than what we are giving them. They deserve a classroom that is not filled to capacity, updated surroundings they can be proud of and a school population that doesn’t exceed the building code. By voting yes in February, community members are showing students they are important. Our children have enough value that we are willing to invest in their education. The question is, how long will it take our community to make this commitment? Will we pay for it now, or will our grown children be burdened with the responsibility?

Carrie Nordberg

Jennifer Webb

Moses Lake