To the editor:
This March, not only are the voters of the Indian Creek Local School District presented with an opportunity to support future generations, but also confirm our valley's resurgence. Unfortunately, these down-trodden times have taken a toll on our valley. However, our community has been blessed to regain vitality with the forecasted drilling.
As a 1990 Mingo High School alumnus, I had to witness my alma mater consolidate with Wintersville in 1993. This merger was difficult for many to understand, including myself. The district had no choice in order to survive. The time has come once again where our district is in need of our support so we can progress, not regress.
As a 40-year, lifelong citizen, my wife and I elected to keep residence so we may raise our children in a community we cherish. We no longer live in the industrial age of thinking but rather an age of knowledge. We are in this knowledge age, for that foundation has been built within our schools. The schools are not only bricks and mortar, but also a symbol of growth and pride. So, if we are asking our children to compete within this knowledge age, a new high school is imperative.
As the son of a carpenter, a blue-collar worker, I can certainly appreciate the financial commitment. However, that same blue-collar senior citizen sees the vision and understands the need. With new drilling jobs on the horizon, these companies have a vested interest in the community for its employees. With any company growth, a first question asked is about the local school districts. Although our teachers are dedicated to excellence and our students perform well academically in Ohio, the buildings pose an important role for meeting our students' needs. This is not just a levy for a new school; it will provide renovations to existing facilities and ongoing operations.
Indian Creek was approved for funding through the Ohio School Facilities Commission Exceptional Needs Program. This program focuses on identifying schools in most need of replacement, not renovation. Further, the school is too small for our student population. State funding is guaranteed now with $7.1 million and is uncertain for the future. If we wait, the cost to build a new school will increase, but state aid will not.
One month ago, I took my first tour of the current high school. Needless to say, this was an eye-opening experience. Not only is the school aged, outdated and in much need of repairs, it is also too small. For those who believe that the facilities are adequate, I encourage you to take a tour - which can be scheduled. Before making your decision of "yes" or "no" on Issue 6, I request that you learn the facts so you can make an informed decision about this investment. If we do not show our children that we care about our future, why should they?
Kurt Williams
Wintersville
