My fellow Community Members:
As we approach the upcoming election, I am writing to make a final appeal for your support of the $149 million construction bond that is crucial for the future of the Estacada School District and our community as a whole. This bond package addresses three significant threats facing Estacada schools: aging facilities, growth and capacity, and the need for competitive high school experiences.
Let me begin by emphasizing the urgency of our situation.
Our school facilities are aging, and without significant investment, they will continue to deteriorate, compromising the quality of education our students receive. The $149 million bond will enable us to address this pressing issue by building a new two-story Estacada High School on half of its current footprint, while renovating the other half to become the new home of Estacada Middle School.
Additionally, the current Estacada Middle School will be repurposed as an additional elementary school, helping to alleviate the growth and capacity crisis we are facing.
Moreover, this bond will fund much-needed upgrades to our elementary school buildings, including improvements to plumbing, electrical systems, lighting, and HVAC infrastructure. These enhancements will ensure a climate-controlled learning environment in every classroom, promoting student and employee comfort and academic success. This bond will also support Estacada Schools to become an emergency evacuation shelter in the event of wildfire, flooding, extreme weather, etc.
One of the questions I am frequently asked is, "What happens if the bond is unsuccessful?"
The reality is that we will continue to do our best to serve our students with a quality education, despite operating in aging facilities and outdated classrooms. However, without adequate funding for renovations and upgrades, we will be forced to rely on temporary solutions such as portable classrooms, exacerbating the challenges of overcrowding and traffic congestion in town.
It is essential to recognize that the cost of construction will only increase over time. By investing $3.16 per $1,000 assessed value (NOT market value), you and your fellow citizens can raise $149 million to fix and upgrade our school facilities in one comprehensive effort. This investment is not just about buildings; it is an investment in our community's future, ensuring that the Estacada School District can thrive and continue to support our communities for generations to come.
I want to express my gratitude to everyone who has been involved in advocating for the needs of our children and our school district, from our dedicated community members to our hardworking school staff and leadership. Your support and commitment to our students' education are truly commendable, and I am confident that together, we can make a positive impact on Estacada's future.
In conclusion, let us unite as one amazing community to invest in our future, providing our students with the facilities and resources they need to succeed. Thank you for your consideration and support.
Dr. Ryan Carpenter is superintendent of the Estacada School District. He has been an Estacada resident and Estacada taxpayer since 2009.
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