What We Learned From the Crowd

The folks who have attended the past two Town Hall meetings have taught us a number of things about the bond issue and building new schools. They are valuable lessons. The first thing we have learned is that mostly Yes voters are in attendance.
However, there are also some folks who were opposed but willing to show up, ask questions, get answers and leave with a more positive if not totally supportive position. And those are important folks as they may make a critical difference in the results.
We learned from Mr. Parlin’s presentation that our district is shrinking. From nearly 6,000 students in the 1960s, we are down to under 3,000. But a more frightening figure came out.
In 2000, our underprivileged population in the schools was about 10%. That number has grown to nearly 40%. Not only are we shrinking in size but our student needs for special services is increasing.
We have learned that the two years spent developing the Journey Map plan for where the district is headed is well received. And it was essential to determining what the district’s needs really are and how we can meet those needs. If you would like to see it yourself, go to www.buildmariettaschools.com. Or call 374-6500 Extension 11. We will send or deliver one to you.
We learned based on our previous experience that transportation costs are likely to go down and some student bus rides will be shorter, though some a bit longer as a result of the new configuration. We may need to add two buses but experience overall savings in operation.
We learned about class sizes and what is and is not possible with our existing facilities. In light of coming mandates on class sizes we learned that we would incur great costs to install temporary trailers at nearly every school to accommodate the new requirements. Money that is better spent on new buildings that will serve for decades.
We learned about needed school safety and security changes that are not attainable in the current buildings at anywhere near affordable costs. Times have changed, our buildings have not.
Finally we learned that someone with a genuine interest in finding out what the project truly means to the community can ask good questions, get good answers and fully understand the importance of this project to the community. But there’s a problem.
There are those unwilling or unable to access all this information. Some who have made up their minds without knowing what is at stake. Yet others who may not even care what is at stake.
This is where you may be of assistance. At the end of last Monday’s meeting an audience member was concerned that we have not been conveying this information adequately to the public at large. She understood what we had conveyed and the importance of the public to become informed. We agree and understand.
Another person offered a solution. You each have friends, neighbors and others with whom you communicate. You can be the person to carry the message. You can be the person who can help share the facts. You can play an influential role in coming to a successful conclusion and positive outcome for our community.
Those who genuinely do want information and facts upon which to base their decision often just need a helpful voice to get that information. Someone like yourself who has taken the time to understand and share. Someone who cares about the future of our community and our children and grandchildren.
Give us a hand. Lend your voice. Tell others what you know.