Date: October 29, 2001
Contact person: LuAnn Bird 426-2030 3037 Bellaire Lane Oshkosh WI 54904-1002 labird@new.rr.com
To the editor:
The taxpayers once again have a chance to decide the future of public education in Oshkosh. An increasingly diverse population of students along with challenging changes in family structures creates a need for more programs. Having served for six years on the board, it is difficult to meet all of these needs with the current funding caps. Having closely studied the current plans, I believe both questions proposed deserve our support. This referendum helps children and recognizes the important role schools play in sustaining healthy neighborhoods to keep our community strong.
The 73% yes vote to replace Jefferson School provides evidence that Oshkosh believes in neighborhood schools. Pilot programs in our own schools have proven that all children learn more in smaller class sizes. Working parents want their children in all day kindergarten. The money included to address maintenance needs only avoids problems down the road with the facilities that house our children.
Sunset school needs an upgrade and does not have room for children coming from the proposed housing development on the Grundy property. Bussing students out of their neighborhoods does not meet with the standards of this community.
Unanimous thinking on the issues in this referendum is hard to obtain. For example, some districts close small schools. Some do not believe in small class sizes. Still others do not believe in all day kindergarten. Past practice has shown our community values decisions made in the best interest of our children.
According to state statute 120.13, "The school board…may do all things reasonable to promote the cause of education, including establishing, providing and improving school district programs, functions and activities for the benefit of the pupils…"
By proposing this referendum the Oshkosh Board is carrying out its responsibility to the children in our community.
Please join me in voting "YES" to both questions.
LuAnn Bird
Former School Board President