From Claire Leeds

Monroe

To the Editor:

I recently put this question about the November 8th MHS referendum to someone who knows better than I do. He quickly said, we can’t do nothing. Why? Is it because of MHS’s inefficient ($$$) mechanical systems that are beyond their life expectancy? The cracked foundation in the science wing? The water infiltrating the basement, causing a growing mold problem and poor classroom air quality? Look at the pictures at monroeschools.com. Watch the video. It quotes the cost of repairing these, and other issues, at $86 million. 

When he said, we can’t do nothing, I thought, we sure can do nothing. Other communities have. We can vote no to this referendum. The district will regroup, spend more money on community surveys and a different plan. Then, one or two years down the road, when labor costs and interest rates have climbed, and another class or two has graduated, there’ll be another referendum. Meanwhile, just like in our own homes, we risk the emergency costs of sudden mechanical failures, worsening mold and air quality, a crumbling foundation. 

I’m proud that our community has a strong history of supporting our schools. I understand that this is the biggest ask yet, but addressing the High School’s problems is a need, not a want. What does the future hold if we do nothing? Wasting millions on bandaid solutions in a failing building? 

How do people with children — medical workers, retail clerks, tradespeople, small business owners, factory workers — live and work in a community that lacks a sound High School? As a mom of two young kids, an MHS alum (’99) who remembers the teeth chattering cold of Biology class, and a homeowner, I must ask: if not this solution, what solution? If not now, when? If not this much, how much and for what value? Now is the time to have the foresight to build a solid High School fit for 21st century learning. Now is the time to make this community great for the next 70 years. Vote YES November 8th.