Bond provides many services for WV students
West Valley School District has long been blessed by a strong school-community partnership that ensures the highest quality educational experience for our children.
West Valley voters will soon receive ballots in the mail, giving them the opportunity to renew the commitment to our children for a first-class education by voting “Yes” for the replacement school programs maintenance and operations levy. This comes on the heels of a March 14 election result that was just 43 votes shy of passing.
Levy loss is a major setback, but in West Valley’s case it also marks an amazing resurgence of determination and energy from parents, educators and community members as they work together in partnership to ensure this second election, May 16, is successful.
The levy comprises one-fifth of the district budget, providing local funding for vital needs.
“Student achievement. West Valley was recently honored statewide for high achievement. Community members partner in earning such a distinction, offering unprecedented classroom volunteerism and levy dollars. This translates into smaller class sizes and strategic interventions to help each child, from the gifted to the struggling learner, improve achievement.
“Safety and transportation. The levy funds security officers essential to safe and secure schools. Approximately 85 percent of our elementary children ride the bus, but without local support nearly all these children would walk to school. Washington provides busing only for students who live at least a mile away from school. West Valley is criss-crossed with busy and unsafe streets. Thankfully, the levy has consistently provided funding so our children do not contend with unsafe crossings.
“Athletics and activities. We boast the 2005 state champion West Valley Eagle track team and a band selected for the Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C., indicators of our high quality extracurricular programs. Every child has opportunities for field trips, festivals and competitions that help them develop new skills and build character. All of these rich experiences are wholly funded by levy dollars.
Given West Valley’s strong school-community partnership, one question is repeatedly asked: “Why did the levy fail?” While no major issue has emerged, several concerns can be clarified.
“All mail-in ballot. All elections in Spokane County are now conducted by mail-in ballot. Some voters confessed they discarded the ballot with junk mail or just did not get it mailed in time. When your ballot arrives next week, please remember to return it on or before May 16.
“Replacement levy. Despite various advertisements, some voters did not clearly understand that the levy is the replacement of an expiring levy. The levy has been in place for many years and has been renewed by voters every three years. West Valley’s replacement amount is less per $100,000 of home value than it was three years ago.
“Construction Bond. In 2004, West Valley patrons generously approved a $35 million bond to rebuild West Valley High School and add new gyms to our four elementary schools. We’re working hard to ensure all bond projects will be completed as planned and within the bond budget. However, it is the levy that will provide for care and stewardship of the new facilities, allowing us to fully utilize much needed space for school programs and community use.
I am closing in on 10 years of administration and my first year as superintendent. I know well how West Valley’s collective strength of character and resolve turns setback into opportunity. We will take this opportunity to prove our West Valley pride.