School bond: Vote yes

As we move closer to the March 11 high school bond election I would like to do two things:

1) I would like to thank North Whidbey voters for making possible the construction and remodel of our six elementary schools and two middle schools. You have improved the learning and working environment for thousands of students, teachers, parents and volunteers. The school district was able to finish all of those projects on time and budget, as well as leveraging the bonds effectiveness by maximizing state matching money and adding many needed featured to the projects, thus benefiting students for years to come.

2) I would also like to urge you to vote yes on the high school bond March 11. This project will have a tremendous positive impact on not only the students, but also the entire community. This project is a combination of new construction and remodel that will once again give us the maximum benefit to students for the money spent.

The infrastructure will be updated. Over 50 classrooms will be remodeled, and new ones built. The existing spaces will be made more usable, and allow for a flexible learning environment. It will allow for the technology needed in today’s educational environment. The stadium will be brought to the high school, where it can be used during the day, and become a focal point of school/community pride. A performing arts center will become the center for school and community cultural activities. The school will be made safer and able to accommodate all students and teachers.

The time is right for this project. The current low interest rates and construction climate will ensure that we get the most value for our dollar, while at the same time providing for our students for many years. While I am sorry that my grown children will not benefit from this facility, I am thankful to those who provided for them while they were going through school. I hope that I am able to do the same for the current and future students of North Whidbey, and hope you will join me in voting yes March 11.

John D. Dyer

Oak Harbor

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