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Board approves seeking bids on stadium repairs
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By Bob Watson
bwatson@newstribune.com
Jefferson City's Adkins Stadium soon may be getting a near-total facelift.
The seven-member Board of Education on Tuesday unanimously authorized the Jefferson City High School Football Foundation to seek bids for new bleachers, a new football field and an eight-lane track.
On Friday, the board will review some designs that Architect's Alliance has been considering as it developed cost estimates for the project.
“There are several design concepts,” said Phil Freeman, a former school board president representing the Football Foundation at Tuesday night's meeting. “There are an infinite amount of possibilities in a finite piece of land.”
Freeman told board members their approval for seeking bids would set the district on a schedule to replace the 67-year-old bleachers and rebuild the track and field next summer.
“As soon as the season ends - whenever the last game is played at Adkins Stadium for that year,” he explained, “the stadium is then turned over to the general contractor, and they're told, ‘You have until next August to get this project done.'”
Superintendent Bert Kimble said Tuesday's approval to seek bids means they could be sent out to contractors next month.
The football field would be replaced with artificial turf, and the current track would be replaced with an eight-lane track that would allow the Jefferson City High School track teams to host their own competitions.
Currently, those meets are held on Lincoln University's eight-lane track.
Freeman said the Football Foundation, the Football Boosters and the Track Boosters are willing to pay half the estimated $900,000 cost for building the new track and field - although they reserve the right to change their offer if the final bids raise that cost.
Freeman said the district's half likely would be offset by future cost savings.
“What is it costing you currently to maintain that field?” he asked. “In labor, as far as cutting the grass and fertilizing the field, it's very labor-intensive trying to maintain any type of athletic facility.”
Over a 10-year period - the advertised life of a new turf field - those savings might be $300,000, Kimble said.
Before a new track or field is built, though, the bleachers need to be replaced, both Freeman and Kimble told the board.
The current bleachers are crumbling in spots, with at least one accident already reported.
“We've got a safety issue,” Kimble said, reminding the board the district's insurance company has said it will provide coverage on the current facility for only two more years.
“We have the money in the capital projects fund to handle the bleachers and our share of the field,” he added.
A final cost for the bleachers depends on their capacity and final design, Kimble said.
He noted the money for the bleachers project is separate from the bond issue money voters approved in April for the district's new elementary school and building renovations for full-day kindergarten and expanded library/media centers.
The seven-member Board of Education on Tuesday unanimously authorized the Jefferson City High School Football Foundation to seek bids for new bleachers, a new football field and an eight-lane track.
On Friday, the board will review some designs that Architect's Alliance has been considering as it developed cost estimates for the project.
“There are several design concepts,” said Phil Freeman, a former school board president representing the Football Foundation at Tuesday night's meeting. “There are an infinite amount of possibilities in a finite piece of land.”
Freeman told board members their approval for seeking bids would set the district on a schedule to replace the 67-year-old bleachers and rebuild the track and field next summer.
“As soon as the season ends - whenever the last game is played at Adkins Stadium for that year,” he explained, “the stadium is then turned over to the general contractor, and they're told, ‘You have until next August to get this project done.'”
Superintendent Bert Kimble said Tuesday's approval to seek bids means they could be sent out to contractors next month.
The football field would be replaced with artificial turf, and the current track would be replaced with an eight-lane track that would allow the Jefferson City High School track teams to host their own competitions.
Currently, those meets are held on Lincoln University's eight-lane track.
Freeman said the Football Foundation, the Football Boosters and the Track Boosters are willing to pay half the estimated $900,000 cost for building the new track and field - although they reserve the right to change their offer if the final bids raise that cost.
Freeman said the district's half likely would be offset by future cost savings.
“What is it costing you currently to maintain that field?” he asked. “In labor, as far as cutting the grass and fertilizing the field, it's very labor-intensive trying to maintain any type of athletic facility.”
Over a 10-year period - the advertised life of a new turf field - those savings might be $300,000, Kimble said.
Before a new track or field is built, though, the bleachers need to be replaced, both Freeman and Kimble told the board.
The current bleachers are crumbling in spots, with at least one accident already reported.
“We've got a safety issue,” Kimble said, reminding the board the district's insurance company has said it will provide coverage on the current facility for only two more years.
“We have the money in the capital projects fund to handle the bleachers and our share of the field,” he added.
A final cost for the bleachers depends on their capacity and final design, Kimble said.
He noted the money for the bleachers project is separate from the bond issue money voters approved in April for the district's new elementary school and building renovations for full-day kindergarten and expanded library/media centers.
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jim67 wrote on Oct 9, 2007 1:27 AM: " sry, kmimie for the typo. Most of the monies in those budgets come from ticket sales, concessions, advertisers, program sales, t-shirt/sweater/etc. and donations; Not your pockets. Everyone is quick to blame the sports teams for lack of things the classrooms need. Books are over rated. I graduated with above average grades and never took a book home once! " jim67 wrote on Oct 9, 2007 1:13 AM: " Build new bleachers? GREAT idea. Go and see for yourself like kimmie said. Track? I could accept that. Having what is needed to host the events I can see. Artificial field turf? Let the booster club buy it! " dogmo22 wrote on Oct 8, 2007 10:45 AM: " kimmie00 read the article Preliminary Stadium Renovation Ideas Considered, it's more than replacing seating that is being considered. The seating can be fixed without all the other major improvements. " kmimie00 wrote on Oct 5, 2007 4:10 PM: " I do not agree we need a state of the art foot ball field and track, that is money would be better spent some place else, but I do agree the stadium seating does need to be repaired, it is falling apart and anyone who goes to games or band shows will see just how bad they are. " dogmo22 wrote on Oct 3, 2007 8:19 AM: " I wonder why the board is keeping a lid on the total cost of this project. I'm sure they don't want the cost known to the public until it's a done deal. They wouldn't want any public debate over the proper use of school funds. If the board and everyone involved is so sure that this is the best use of funds, why not make it an open process? Why do it behind closed doors? " Rickycook wrote on Sep 24, 2007 7:41 PM: " what do we pay all that money to the superintendent for?
he is a deligatorand he doesn't do much reduce his 6 figure salary to a5 digit salary and make him earn it! " Rickycook wrote on Sep 24, 2007 7:38 PM: " I am a import to Jefferson City. I have lived here for only 25 years. But on the town i grew up in the school system would love to have all the free money the Jefferson City school District gets from tax dollars of all the parents of the Children that go to private schools in this district. I think it is a shame that we have so much waste in the school district that we can't buy books! An it is a real shame the school district is planning on spending any money on the football field and track when kids have no txt books! I think every adminstrator and board member has a Pete Adkins. They should all be fired and voted out! " Boscoe wrote on Sep 24, 2007 5:36 PM: " The school board can transfer money from one fund to another. It is all TAX MONEY. They need to use it wisely. Building a new fancy stadium while kids are not being taught and don't have books and their buildings are falling down is not a good use of my tax dollars. " dogmo22 wrote on Sep 24, 2007 3:13 PM: " It's a shame that this discussion has turned into a name calling fiasco. With so many issues facing our schools. Just because some believe that the money residing in the Capital Projects Fund should be used to address over crowding, crumbling buildings and lack of classroom space, does not make them bad people. The only way budgetary priorities will change is when people are recruited to run for school board that support a change in priorities. " melissa1 wrote on Sep 24, 2007 11:52 AM: " I was just reading some posts from a while back. I have three children, one just started kindergarten and I am apalled that some students do not get text books to take home with them! I tell you where I would be if this happened, right in the office, in front of whoever would give me the time of day. I would NOT leave until my child GOT a text book. I think all parents must stand up for their children. It may not work but I would make the biggest a@# of myself trying. How can a parent look bad in this situation, only school looks bad. " ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Sep 24, 2007 9:52 AM: " Max that is so funny my daughter works for a law firm and she comes with very high recommendations...She is a very upstanding adult even at the age of 17yrs old. Everyone who has ever met any of my children have always said how polite and upstanding they are. You can teach kids just because there are rules that they may not be right and that you have to help in changing those rules. My husband is a Marine and fights for the freedom of speech that so many seem to want to only be one sided. So thank you for telling me how you see me and my family. I will take it as a grain of salt " online_editor wrote on Sep 24, 2007 12:02 AM: " No personal squabbling please. Just stick to the issues and your views of them. Thanks. (Even a skilled writer may post a few typos, especially since we don't have a "preview" mode to help with proofreading and no "edit" function after the fact. So let's put an emphasis on the ideas expressed.) --Rick Brown, online editor, News Tribune. " Boscoe wrote on Sep 23, 2007 3:00 PM: " The city lets the roads get full of potholes and crumbled pavement and doesn't do any maintenance, they just continue to let it all fall apart. The water company doesn't take care of its pipes and now at 100 years old, the mains break all the time. Business on Missouri Blvd have many light bulbs burned out on their signs and it looks like hell. What ever happened to responsibility and saving and maintenance? I agree that some heads should roll on the school board and the school facilities people should be fired over the terrible condition of the equipment and grounds at most all of our schools. What about he insurance inspections that are required? " Boscoe wrote on Sep 23, 2007 2:57 PM: " Max is right on one thing: It is the longstanding redneck attitude of no pride in a job well done of people around here who build something nice and then don't take care of it. The stadium should never have gotten to this point of danger- it should have been repaired and maintained, and money should have been saved to help build a new one instead of taking out more loans. The city let those houses on McCarty street rot for 10 years and now they are worthless. The Parks Dept let the parks run down and equipment break and never maintained it. " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 23, 2007 2:41 PM: " sure ndnlv, turn it into a personal attack when you are losing and , I will do the same. Your kids need to go to a private school because they must have the same self serving, we are better than everyone else , do not have to comply to your stupid rules and we know everything attitude that is fostered in those institutions " ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Sep 23, 2007 8:24 AM: " All i can say Max is if you were a teacher for my children with all the mis-spellings and the way of thinking I am seeing from you. I can see why students now adays cant spell or think for themselves. We are teaching young adults. I agreed the stadium needs help but so does the school. Why is it such an issue if like this last friday night there was over 10,000 people in attendance at this Jays game at you figure only 300 or less were the students themselves paying $3 each the rest paid $5 each get the totals teacher and tell me why the funds cant also be used to help better our schools get the best teachers and the bestofWhatThoseTeachersNeedToTeach?? " wow wrote on Sep 22, 2007 10:06 PM: " Max, please help me out. Who on the School Board dropped the ball? Did this situation happen because of the infamous "that's how it's alway's been" attitude? If so, some heads need to roll!
Surely, it's not going to take a few ton's of concrete to crumble a few of our children in order to get the right people to do their job is it? After seeing those bleecher's, I now have even less faith in the capabilties of the JC School board members than before....and if the Booster's support the board memeber's,I have even less faith in them!
Max, we gotta get things fixed, before it's to late. " wow wrote on Sep 22, 2007 9:45 PM: " Sure "Fair Wear and Tear" have taken a toll on the current stadium, but that's not the problem. The stadium should have never gotten to this point of decay, espcially if the booster's and the school board were so on top of things.
Max, I realize the booster's are somewhat limited to what they can do on school property, but remember me saying something about not going with the crowd just because?
I find it hard to believe, in the state capital, our students don't have the needed text books nor are the school facilites safe for our children/students due to neglect and possibly misrepresentation.
Are the other JC schools this bad?
" wow wrote on Sep 22, 2007 9:27 PM: " Max, JC Citizen, I visited the JCHS stadium this past Friday, what I saw scared me terribly. I did a risk assesment of the area and saw that both ends of the bleechers are being supported by some type of make-shift rebar rig. I later learned that this quick fix was constructed by the Booster club! Now I'm no engineer, but even I can see that this current structure is unsafe and in need of repair. So, yes the stadium renovation is really needed ASAP; however my change of attitude is not without comment.
Who's been doing the safety inspections for the JC School System? From what I see, either someone lied or left these inspections uncompleted! " ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Sep 22, 2007 8:41 PM: " Well said Boscoe...maybe if maxheadroom wouldve had some great teachers that are being spoke of so highly we wouldnt have as many TYPOS...I will always back my children and fight for all of them to have the same rights as the other children. I have one very gifted child and she is in honor classes. I have two children who struggle to learn with disabilities and you will always see me fighting for what is right for these children since there will always be people out there who forget that they were once children themselves without a voice. Like I said before there are many flaws with the system but it takes everyone to change those flaws. ITs not just the schools problems its alsotheParentsStudentsAndTheCommunity " Boscoe wrote on Sep 21, 2007 10:07 PM: " Maxheadroom, I guess you have never had any contact with a disabled child. Sure, it is their fault they have a disability. If you were to kick them out of school, what would you do with them? Send them to an institution to rot, or maybe to an incinerator? Many students drop out or fail to succeed because they have lazy teachers who do not want to differentiate their instruction. They just want to teach the old way to their classes, and do not want to learn how to teach in new ways. Also, the gifted kids get bored and become behavior problems because school does not challenge them, again due to lazy teachers. " Boscoe wrote on Sep 21, 2007 10:01 PM: " Miller Performing Arts Center was a huge waste of dollars and effort, and I was against it when it was first proposed. I have attended a few events there, and while nice, I still and furious that so much was wasted to benefit so few. While a nice place, it is way too small of a venue for this town. We already have some similar sized auditoriums (like Richardson Auditorium) and really needed something much larger to serve the entire community, not the hoity-toity select few. How about an auditorium/convention center that would seat 5000? It could be used for bigger-name concerts, conventions, state government meetings, etc. Miller is a nice little place in a ugly old building. " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 21, 2007 9:00 PM: " 90 per cent of all transgressions are commited by 5 per cent of the school , if you took the 50 worst kids out of JC another 50 would never follow their lead and it would be a private school environment. Parents you act like the school and its personnnel hold al lthe keys, talk to your legislatirs they hold most the keys to our system NGDNL my parents would hjave never whined about tardies to a school , because theynew that conforming to rules was what we had to learn to grwo up. I do not care if you have 10 kids magna cumlaude, you are enabling parent and it wil catch up to your kids some day " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 21, 2007 8:56 PM: " nggv whatever... The main problem at JC High , is that we worry too dadgum much about the kids that do not care. ie the drop out rate, map scores of kids thjat do not fill out there books,continually bringing back kids after 3-10 day suspensions and they come back to do the same over and over (I know its the law, wake up legislators thats who we need to gripe at) No child left behind. phooey. God helps those that help themselves, Lets worry about the ones that want to learn and have respect for their environment and teachers . " ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Sep 21, 2007 7:44 PM: " max go to krcg and read the story dated on Sept4 Mo schools face federal criticisms...we are rated one of the nations worst. Not coming up with these statements. The school sent home letters to all parents in the public school district saying what they were trying to do to make sure no children fell through the cracks. I have a senior, and two middle school students what do you have to back you?? I have one that plays football, one that is big into computers and one that is on the schools National Honor Society and has been asked to come to Yale but guess what she still has issues carrying books that weigh what they do because of not enough time to gettoABasementLockerwhenNOClassesAreDownThereAndToldCantGoAtLunchBecauseClassesAreBeingHeldINthoseRooms " JCcitizen wrote on Sep 21, 2007 2:55 PM: " I believe in my school board, I believe in school administrators, and I believe in teaching children to be responsible adults (even if they don't want to) but most of all I believe that we are all spending way too much time beating a dead horse. " JCcitizen wrote on Sep 21, 2007 2:53 PM: " For those of you who are concerned with the funds that are going to be spent and the needs of the high school, what was your stance when the Miller Performing Arts Center was built? We did not have to have that, but additional capitol was required that could have been spent at the current buildings. Also we pay for salaries there and maintenance/janitorial. Do you object to that spending as well? " dogmo22 wrote on Sep 21, 2007 2:06 PM: " Hey Boscoe that's pretty harsh. The reason things don't change is simply, the people who want change sit around and complain but they won't get out and vote when school board elections are held. Look at voter turn out. If people would recruit candidates for school board who support change and actually show up to vote for them and get them elected, the result would be change. " Boscoe wrote on Sep 21, 2007 1:18 PM: " I agree that JC is an extremely conservative town to the point of being a backwards town. However, someone has to start somewhere, and we can't sit back and stay quiet when huge sums of money are being spent on silly things while the foundations are rotting away. This town has so much potential to be way more than it is now, but the group in power wants things to stay the way it is. Someone said it best when they pointed out that the germanic catholic heritage of the local citizens may LIKE to be ruled and oppressed without taking any action to improve their own lot or be self-governed re: Hitler, Pope, etc. " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 21, 2007 1:11 PM: " ndlgnv you have no proof on A plus being pulled just your diatribe .chicken little..the sky is falling the sky is falling " ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Sep 21, 2007 12:40 PM: " I agree the problem is it has been like this for many years...that is why we need to fight for a change as the parents of the students going to these school. Apples to Oranges Please...not that long ago we were looking the same. As far as the scores go what is really funny is JC highschool failed compared to all other states. The national boards are looking at what needs to be done to change learning for the low in come, disabled children, reduced lunch children, and special needs children because needs arent being met. If the national board gave JC an F how can it be said that we are so good. The national board is also looking at pulling the A+ accreditationAwayFromJCWhy? " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 21, 2007 11:43 AM: " wow I respect your opinion and wish you well too , I'm not saying I agree with this conservative stick in the mud attitude , but it is what is , as well , and you have to keep that in mind when attempting change in such a place " wow wrote on Sep 21, 2007 11:32 AM: " Max...your "like it or not this is the way Jeff City has been for years" comment is a problem for me and tend to promote your inability to rationalize things. But again...that's comming from a person who was not born and raised in JC!
I feel it best to conclude our conversation with this. Max..supporting things because "it's always been that way" typically works in places where people have not caught on that the world is really round. If you ever leave the comfort of this "it's always been that way enviornment" you may see life from a different perspective.
I may never agree you, but I do wish you well.
" maxheadroom wrote on Sep 21, 2007 11:32 AM: " wow .. Do we agree we can not compare Columbia to Jeff City for reasons stated , apples to oranges attitude wise " wow wrote on Sep 21, 2007 11:12 AM: " Max....I'm closer to DESE than you know; however I don't need a bunch of Phd's telling me what I can clearly see with my own eyes.
I support the renovation of the JCHS stadium; however like many other's, I feel it shouldn't happen before other shortfalls of "our" school system have been addressed and at least some of those problems corrected.
The stadium is done deal..ok. I hope the students and visitors enjoy many years of atheltic and social comfort. I'm not a "stadium hater".
For or against, we'll live with the results of our school board. But no matter what, none of us can afford to fail the students. Support education!
" maxheadroom wrote on Sep 21, 2007 11:08 AM: " wow.. I told you would find fault with a golden palace so
nothing would fit your liking. boscoe Columbia and Jeff City two polar opposite cities, population, demographics , socioecnomics , political beliefs , very liberal and open minded to change not so in JC . College town 3 colleges , education rules , that would explain why they have it all together , like it or not this is the way Jeff City has been for years . We do have an awesome private school and they do not so we have that on them . " wow wrote on Sep 21, 2007 10:51 AM: " If we had a " golden palace school" let's pray that school met the needs of all the student who attended there. I guess the only problem would be determining who got to attend the "golden palace school, but that's just a wish.
The fact is, we don't have anything near a "golden palace school" in JC. Because of that, many of our students are suffering. As for those sterling statistics of success you mention. We all know stats can be skewed any way you want. I guess Samuel Clemmons said it best with "there are three types of lies, lies, damn lies and statistics".
What we have ain't golden, but it is all we got and that's shamful! " Boscoe wrote on Sep 21, 2007 9:40 AM: " Once we get the stadium rebuilt, I hope we can work on getting that indoor swimming pool finished, as well as a nice Polo field constructed. How about a domed stadium? If the Rams can have one, why not the Jays? Maybe we can tear out some of the classrooms and put in a bowling alley. After all, the most important thing for students is to have good sports teams. Funny--Columbia Hickman has excellent sports AND excellent academics-- in a town with TWO high schools! Wonder what they know that we don't? Oh, I forgot, we know everything and there are no problems with good ol JC. What a stupid little town this is. " Boscoe wrote on Sep 21, 2007 9:36 AM: " Oh yeah, Max, it is a wonderful place. The new stadium is the highest need for our students and is rightly prioritized. I'm glad our students are the best in the state and that our school system is the best in the state and that all JC students are being educated to the best of their ability. Yeah, our students have a great place to learn in their 100-year old buildings with window air conditioners and old steam radiators that are vere efficient. YEAH RIGHT. What about the high dropout rate compared to other Missouri Districts for Special Ed students? Guess it is OK to leave them behind so we can put them on welfare when they get older " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 21, 2007 9:24 AM: " Wow , you seem to me to be a person that would find fault in a golden palace school with the best education. Every school district can do better . Does JC have areas they need to improve ? Certainly.. I have never in one psost said we did not have problesms, I just defended the stadium move. Why do't you go to DESE and get JC'S
MAP scores and see where they rank state wide, it is not as bad as you pretend it is. Could it be better ? Sure it could. We rank in the top 20 per cent in most and and top 10 in many other areas . A plus ranking in our state evaluations, hmmmmmmm " wow wrote on Sep 21, 2007 8:40 AM: " Max & JC Citizen...in my opinion, your last comments revealed the real you! But...
What about the students that are not on a team or in the band? The regular students who fail a class or classes because they won't have a text book or books to study from! Add the fact that these students are pressed into over crowded class rooms and it get's worse...no college! Now since you're both so safey minded, what happens when these students get hurt due to one of the many unsafe conditions exisiting at Simonson? What's gonna happen then?
Remember this.... what goes around, comes around.
" dogmo22 wrote on Sep 21, 2007 8:38 AM: " Somebody's been drinking too much Haterade! Build the new stadium. It is unfortunate it's a done deal but you are right it is. When will the following issues be addressed? Overcrowed schools, run down facilities, lack of learning materials, dropping test scores a rising drop out rate. These are real issues and can only be ignored for so long. They are facts. Parents are looking for alternatives. Just look at Helias, the new Lutheran HS and the growth in the Blair Oaks dist and surrounding dist.Some may say good. If parents don't like it they can leave. Folks look at what this has done to the urban districts. Parents who can escape do. " JCcitizen wrote on Sep 21, 2007 8:01 AM: " Let's remember that this is a done deal. Also I think that a few of you must have missed that Dr. Kimble said that is some improvements are not made the stadium was no longer going to be insurable in a couple years because of its condition.
Also, more than just football uses that stadium. You have varsity and jv football, varsity and jv track(which has brought more than a little positive publicity to the town, not to mention free college education for several participants), band (ask them how nice it will be to not trudge through wet cinders and mud), little olympics, graduation, and now we have the potential to have additional events there. " JCMO5266 wrote on Sep 20, 2007 6:16 PM: " I must admit that the JCHS stadium is not up-to-date; however, neither are the classrooms. Most parents would agree that the education of our children needs to be top priority. I do realize that many athletes do attend college on athletic scholarships, which is great for them. However, I believe that all students need to have a fair playing field. Our students who deem academics as thier first priority should also have the best-of-best equipment for their needs. This would include updated technology, textbooks, etc. While I am not completely opposed to the stadium renovations, I do believe that this should have come in stages. This way the school system could allocate funds to education. " Scrubnuts wrote on Sep 20, 2007 2:24 PM: " So the football foundation, football boosters & track booster have close to a half million dollars available to drop on the stadium? That's incredible. But, football is not the top priority in JC, right? " Boscoe wrote on Sep 20, 2007 2:23 PM: " Does anyone know why they let things get so run down for years instead of maintaining them properly as they go???
Does anyone know why they don't save and plan for replacement and renovation????
Does anyone know why they take on more than they can handle and let the next generation figure out how to pay for it????
Does anyone know where all the tax money, user fees gate admission money, and tuition money goes???
Does anyone know anything about FAPE (Free and Appropriate Public Education)???
Does anyone know where all the Lottery Money goes???? " Scrubnuts wrote on Sep 20, 2007 2:22 PM: " So this is more than a safety issue...This is a we're going to use the stands as a springboard to get a bunch of stuff done that we want done issue.
So if I need to replace the worn out steps on my deck I may as well build a new, bigger deck, replace the roof, finish the family room and buy a plasma tv.
" wow wrote on Sep 20, 2007 1:41 PM: " Max, I've seen the second hand equipment handed down from the JCHS to the Jr. High and Middle Schools. Many of my player's are using that stuff right now!
Don't you go thinking that stadium benefits anybody but the Booster's and Highschool Jocks...but truthfully I don't blame them.
I blame those who distort the facts and rely on people being to fed up with the system to say or do anything to stop the madness. I get frustrated at those people who twist and turn slowly moving about sugar coating what's really happening. Hey Max, I blame those that tell me it's raining when my pants leg is the only thing getting wet! " dogmo22 wrote on Sep 20, 2007 1:41 PM: " One last request Max, I hope you will come back and comment once the total cost for this new football is announced by Architect's Alliance. I think you will see my projected costs are well inline. If not I promise to come back and eat some crow. Again great discussion. I do appreciate your point of view. " dogmo22 wrote on Sep 20, 2007 1:36 PM: " Hey Max I've seen the costs and know the numbers. I don't need to call the AD. I'm closer to all this than you would care to believe. It's been a great discussion. Thanks for your input. " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 20, 2007 1:23 PM: " What would you do with dollar figures , ? You know nothing about construction or renovation , it's like teaching calculus to a kid that failed alegebra, it's a waste of time " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 20, 2007 1:22 PM: " All gate goes into one pot. to pay for athletic needs of all sports
This school system pays less of its total budget because of our tremendous gate than most school districts, how
bout that smarty pants ? Check it out if you want to
OH NO , I forgot,,you don't want to because that would make you look bad on your all hail jc football theory
This my last post , its like arguing with a middle schooler , no substance to your points
" wow wrote on Sep 20, 2007 1:20 PM: " I don't have dollar figures to quote or refer to regarding this renovation. That's what me and several other's have been asking to see. It's only reasonable isn't it? Epecially since we've all been supporting the JC School system for so long.
I do want JC students to have all the nice "cosmetic" things. Yet I also want them to get nice things for themseleves after they graduate. School books and supplies will help them get an education so they'll be able to do that! A new track may help students run fast, only if they make the track team and are allowed access to the facility.
Lastly, I say education before renovation.
" maxheadroom wrote on Sep 20, 2007 1:18 PM: " this is hilarious . wow and dogmo twist and turn my facts more than a taffy puller at a state fair
1st look up the definition of functional ..used to contribute to the development or maintenance of a larger whole and... and designed and or developed from the point of view of use.. there you go thats what this project is about , like it or not .
and wow and dogmo ..Why don't you call the Ad and ask what it costs to recondition pads and helmets that must be precertified for use each year by the manufacturer for saftey standards, and transportation costs to contests , plus reorder new things for worn out " wow wrote on Sep 20, 2007 12:50 PM: " From Webster's...cosmetic is a preparation or rouge to beautify, superficial or insignificant.
The rouge being how the project came to fruitation. The beauty is because the renovation will make the area look better. As for being superficial or insignificant. Well it depends on who ya are. As for me, I see it as something to make other's feel good about having a modern facility in which to host events and make money. As for being insignificant..well when it comes to not having text books and other needed schools and school supplies..yes it's most certainly cosmetic!
Max...my child goes to school to get an education not run track:) Books not bleecher's!
" dogmo22 wrote on Sep 20, 2007 12:43 PM: " Hey Max your statement that gates receipts are used to purchase equipment is not entirely true. Equipment is reused each year. There are some replacements but it is not a complete replacement. Gate receipts for a home game generates between $17,000 and $20,000. There are 6 home games this year which would produce an income between $102,000 and $120,000. Using your $300 figure to out fit a player. there would have to be 356 new sets of equipment purchased each year to spend all the money. I am sure this is not the case. " ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Sep 20, 2007 12:34 PM: " By giving the books, techinology and AC alone you are improving the school for 1000s of children not just the few on the football and track teams...everyone needs to benefit not just athletics dont you think " ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Sep 20, 2007 12:32 PM: " whats even better max having a child who plays football i know the cost of uniforms that are not new but that parents pay a few on every year been doing it a long time. And since i am a parent with a student playing football on an average friday night we have close to 2000 people attending a football game and you add that it cost $3-$5 to get in hmmm why is the cost so high for our uniforms once again i ask where is the money going. I never said dont give the stadium a face lift i said why not after doing so take some of the revenue and give the whole school and new update by books, techinology, and AC?? " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 20, 2007 12:29 PM: " those fees go for football equipment it costs 300 dollars per kid to suit up in pads and helmet and uniform " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 20, 2007 12:27 PM: " again ndnlv read the post then think...its about functionality not looks " ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Sep 20, 2007 12:26 PM: " i do have a child who plays football at the middle school level and they also use the JCHS field we still pay to get into every game as well. What are those fees being used for...they have boosters sales...where does the money go that is raised from those?? Lets be real here and realize its time JCHS stop and look at the needs of all children and not just the athletic dept.... " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 20, 2007 12:26 PM: " wow aka spin zone, you are the one that spits out all these numbers and then throw a hypothesis out there, which you believe is theory before proven.. I have not thrown nearly as many numbers out here as you have . " ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Sep 20, 2007 12:25 PM: " my question is which is more important spending the money to update the stadium or spending that money to update the schools, and help with getting the materials needed in classrooms. I am a parent of 3 JC public school children...one of which is a senior this year. We spend alot of money each year providing our children with school supplies but what is our school supplying them with. Yes the stadium should look nice but when the profits come in from the stadium they are put once again into the football first then other athletic programs...why not also put some of the profits into updating schools. It could be a win win for JCHS but as you all know that would never happen. " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 20, 2007 12:14 PM: " wow you must read things and then your mind distorts them that is dyslexia . Is the fact that you can not run meets on this track cosmetic ? Is the fact that you can not fit 200 kids on it cosmetic ? Is the fact that you can not run on it for two days after rain cosmetic ? Cutting maintenance needs on real turf , is that cosmetic ? Making stands safer is that cosmetic. I'm for this renovation
because it will be 10 times more functional plain and simple . " wow wrote on Sep 20, 2007 10:06 AM: " Max, judging from your last post you support this renovation based on nothng more than the need for a cosmetic update for the JCHS. Now, that's your choice, but if you'd have said that from the start and not tried to confuse things with all that "glitz and glamour, spin zone" smoke screen. I'd still disagree with you, but at least I'd be a bit more understanding!
Max, JC isn't the only city with problems, but it is our community. I say our's because we both live here. I don't owe you a thing and you owe me even less, but we do need to be honest, because we owe that to ourselves!
I say "books before, renovation". " dogmo22 wrote on Sep 20, 2007 9:55 AM: " Thanks for the links Mr. Brown. I didn't realize the the Lutheran High School was that far along. " Boscoe wrote on Sep 20, 2007 9:19 AM: " Sounds like the real problem is that Jeff City Public School Board has been running the organization on a shoestring and not taking care of facilities in the district. So where is all our tax money going? It isn't going to improve or maintain the buildings or physical structure. It isn't going to buy books, good rigorous curiculum, or technology in the classroom. Are they wasting it on high salaries? Seriously, what is going on here? Just like city hall, have they taken on way too much fluff and have let the basics crumble? Everything is falling apart, they are not meeting NCLB standards, and our kids are not getting a good education. " online_editor wrote on Sep 20, 2007 9:01 AM: " In reference to dogmo22's question: For information about Calvary Lutheran High School, see Lutheran High School expects increased enrollment and Verbal agreement reached for Calvary Lutheran High School site. --Rick Brown, online editor, News Tribune " dogmo22 wrote on Sep 20, 2007 8:51 AM: " Max we are just going to have to disagree. I appreciate your point that JC's football and track are not comparable to other high schools. I just think the money in the capital projects fund should be used to address over crowding and lack of classroom space at the high school and refurbushing Simonsen. I know I'm in the minority. I am alittle disapointed in that the board member I talked with seemed to be sympathic and would raise some of these issues but didn't during the meeting. I guess I do have options, Helias and I also heard that there is a new Lutheran High School started or is starting (does anyone know more about this HS). " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 20, 2007 8:24 AM: " We are the only school in the state , that has a high school population over 500 ( There are 300 schools in that category ) that a cinder track , one that can not be used for several days after heavy rains, one that does not have 8 lanes, so we can not run official meets on , and one that does not accomadate 200 kids every practice . Lincoln charges the program to uses theirs. " Boscoe wrote on Sep 19, 2007 3:10 PM: " How can students learn in a concrete block walled classroom with tile floors and with a noisy window unit air conditioner roaring?
It is a disgrace. " Boscoe wrote on Sep 19, 2007 3:08 PM: " "My opinion is this money would be better spent on refurbishing exsisting buildings and saving toward a new high school."
AMEN!!!
" annab wrote on Sep 19, 2007 1:37 PM: " It is my feeling that the more we get our children involved in extracurriculur activities, the more social, well-rounded adults we will produce. And why not provide them with the best facilities we have access to. However, academics must come first. The idea that students do not have access to textbooks day in and day out just floors me. How do we expect our children to study and learn the material if they don't have something to study from? If the students have what they need academically, I'm all for a state of the art stadium. Until I hear that they do though, I might rethink the private school idea. " annab wrote on Sep 19, 2007 1:35 PM: " I guess it is time for me to really start digging in and doing some research. I moved to JC about 6 months ago. I have a 5 year old daughter who will start Kind. in the fall of 08. My husband and I have been talking a lot about where she will go to school. Having been born and raised in a small rural community and attending public school, I am an advocate for public schools. My husband is strongly urging the private school idea, however, we are not catholic, and I feel I couldn't provide my daughter the support she would need in that setting. Don't get me wrong, I am a huge supporter of athletics. " dogmo22 wrote on Sep 19, 2007 12:37 PM: " Het Max the projected cost for the new surface is $900,000. A fourth of that is $225,000. That pretty much eats up the projected savings of $300,000. Thanks for confirming that. " dogmo22 wrote on Sep 19, 2007 12:31 PM: " Hey Max stop yelling and lay out the costs. Show me where I'm wrong instead of attacking. You have no substance to your arguement. How much will be spent on the stadium, how much will it cost to replace the surface? If the seating and bleachers are the safety concern, why not just fix them, instead of putting in a new field, track, new lighting, new storage buildings and new visitor's seating. Give me your estimated cost of the new stadium. I'm willing to admit when I'm wrong..show me the numbers, give me the facts. My opinion is this money would be better spent on refurbishing exsisting buildings and saving toward a new high school. " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 19, 2007 12:19 PM: " DOGMO , AFTER 10 YEARS THE COST OF REFURBISHING FIELD IS ONE FOURTH THE INITAL COST, YOUR RESEARCH HAS FAILED YOU " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 19, 2007 12:17 PM: " HEY BOSCOE , THOSE SCHOOLS YOU MENTION ALSO HAVE ALL WEATHER FIELDS AND TRACKS..HMMMMMMMMMM " Boscoe wrote on Sep 19, 2007 12:04 PM: " Building a new stadium so 25-50 students have a nicer place to play football is not going to help our community one bit. It will not help prepare our students for the high-skill, high-wage, high-demand jobs of the future.
THE PRIORITIES OF THE SCHOOL BOARD, THE ADMINISTRATION, AND THE ATHLETIC SUPPORTERS ARE WAY WRONG-HEADED.
Jeff City schools are not helping our kids one bit. That is why Blair Oaks, Russelville, Eugene, South Callaway, Helias, etc. are growing so rapidly. They are providing a better education for students. " Boscoe wrote on Sep 19, 2007 12:00 PM: " People need to go visit some other schools around the state to see what they look like, and then visit Jefferson City schools to see what they look like. The differences are shocking.
Sure, there are also plenty of dumpy schools in the state, but Jefferson City USED to be among the BEST, but now it is MEDIODRE. Other schools have so much more technology for students than ours.
I know lots of Jeff City teachers, and they will tell you that today's jeff city students are way different than they were 25 years ago. Our students today are afflicted with many of society's problems, gangs, drugs, absent parents, violence, agression, etc. " wow wrote on Sep 19, 2007 10:54 AM: " Boscoe...according to some people the coditions you are describing don't exist. It's only something being said to make the JC School Board & system look bad. But you can rest easy, there are many other's who see exactly what you described.
The JC system/buildings are not a total loss; however if nothing is done soon, things will certainly get worse!
I've said it before and I'll say it again, I am willing to do my part to help improve things. I just want to do things above the board. I support academics before I support athletics, but I can support them both.
KC and STL have already gotten the eduational shocker..is JC next?
" Boscoe wrote on Sep 19, 2007 10:44 AM: " With all the needs for replacing facilities that have been poorly maintained, getting more rigorous curriculum, putting updated technology in our schools, improving academic achievement of disabled, minority, and free/reduced lunch students, I cannot understand why the school board has prioritized the building of a new sports stadium complex. Last time I checked, schools were supposed to be about education, not sports. Let them use Lincoln's stadium if ours is falling apart. True, Helias parents pay taxes, but they also are elligible for services from Jeff City Public Schools. They CHOSE not to go there, so that is THEIR CHOICE. They live here--they can pay the taxes. Nothing unfair about that.
What is the school board and superintendent thinking? " wow wrote on Sep 19, 2007 10:39 AM: " JC citizen, I've done the donation thing and I've walked the streets with my child for the school fundraiser events. But I still don't know where the money goes, simply because I haven't seen the improvements this fundraiser money and the other allocated school funds are suppose to have produced.
Hey, I'm for what's best for the current and future students & a stadium isn't high on my priority list. Schools, school books and retaining good teacher's who are actually academically involved with the students are on my agenda. Now if that offends some..I can live with that.
Max...don't hate just because we're not in agreement. I'm for books and you're for bleecher's...enough said!
" Boscoe wrote on Sep 19, 2007 10:38 AM: " I think it is a shame that Jefferson City Public Schools have deteriorated into such a poor district. We used to have great facilities and opportunities for our students, and we used to have such wonderful programs and student achievement. Now Jefferson City is very "ho-hum" when compared to other schools in Missouri. Our highschool building is an embarrassment with all the window-shaker air conditioner units and the unlandscaped grounds. The interiors of the new middle schools are wrecked and torn up already. Simonsen looks like an inner-city school. Our students don't have good access to modern technology or rigorous curriculum. The grading scale has been weakened to try to reduce drop outs.
" dogmo22 wrote on Sep 19, 2007 10:20 AM: " JC Citizen-these are very good questions. I think you deserve answers so here goes. I have spoken to a school board memeber about my concerns. I have voiced my concerns about over crowded and run down schools. I support the fund raisers my children continually bring home. I have bought pizza, super saver cards, magazines ect..I am a member of the booster club. Look at my other postings concerning the safety issue. I am being proactive. I think capital improvement project funds should be used to improve the educational life of all students-a new high school and improvements at the other schools and not to build a new stadium. Just because I'm against the stadium doesn't make me any more less of a concernedparent. " wow wrote on Sep 19, 2007 10:18 AM: " Since arriving in JC I've done everthing from coaching for the local YMCA and JC schools, to establishing and participating in neighborhood watch programs, chaperoning school activities, volunteering to help with various school activities and many other community programs; however I must admit... I've not spent time with the JC school board members.
However; does it take an official citizen complaint to make somebody aware that the Simonson MS building is literally falling apart? Anyone going into that buildng can easily see that. Isn't the DESE building on Dunklin St..less than 2 blocks away! I'm sure school board members have visited the school? Have'nt they?
" dogmo22 wrote on Sep 19, 2007 10:03 AM: " Last post, Max so you are saying that in the ten years this field will never have to be cleaned, brushed, sanitzed, repaired, or repainted? Are you also saying that at the end of the ten years the top surface will not have to be replaced at a cost of $250,000-$300,000. My research indicates these are true. I am willing to provide the sources for my research if you want. Again I will say you don't have to put in turf, put in new lighting, put in a new track, add new visitors stands, or add new storage buildings to make the bleachers safe. " dogmo22 wrote on Sep 19, 2007 9:52 AM: " I do have primary source information. I have seen the budget. If this money was dedicated to stadium renovation prior to the levy, then I can't find it anywhere. If you can show me I will shut-up. We can wait for the presentation by the firm doing the study. If my cost estimates are way off then I will apologize for my estimates. I have researched the facts, I have talked with a board memeber about my concerns. Don't attack the messenger, dispute the facts presented. I have yet to see any of the facts disputed, just name calling. You don't have to replace the field, lighting,add a new track, add new vistors bleachers and out buildings to make the stairs and bleachers safe. " dogmo22 wrote on Sep 19, 2007 9:43 AM: " As I have said in my prior posts, I don't have a problem with the renovations of the stadium. It just needs to be above board with all costs explained. I am concerned and I have voiced my concern to board members about the need for an additional high school and improvements to the other school buildings. I voted for the levy and that is part of my issue. The levy was presented and passed on the pretense that it is only dedicated to building a new elementary school, addition of all day kindergarden and media centers. It said nothing about massive stadium improvements. I am very involved in my childrens education. Again why I am posting my concerns. " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 19, 2007 9:27 AM: " Thank you JC citizen... dogmo and wow , take parts of news articles and use some of the figures and quotes and then twist them to make it look like a horrible investment which will benefit two high school JC and Helias , they both use the stadium. And..Helias people pay property taxes , they should get something out those taxes too.
Has dogmo and wow gone to a board meeting to listen and pick up stats or budget info, of course not. Like I said earlier secondary source info , is all they have . Backseat drivers all they are . This is the no spin zone dogma and wow !!! " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 19, 2007 9:23 AM: " Dogmo has a few facts correct and a few incorrect .
Incorrect facts ..zero maintenance to field , yes zero
that is why its cost effective also..overinflated cost of entire project dogmo, we have people donating materials and labor , it will be less than you espoused. Dogmos also refuses to believe we are actually going to save money over what it would cost to paint, seed , water , plug, roll and fertilize a game field and practice field . I will not be millions . At the end of 10 years we will have
saved money . S A V E D over use of regular fields , " JCcitizen wrote on Sep 19, 2007 8:56 AM: " I have a series of questions for those of you questioning the legitimacy of this spending. 1. Have you contacted the school board? 2. Have you approached a school board representative about your concerns (with Simonsen, the middles schools, etcetera)? 3.Have you given donations to the school district that are earmarked for specific funding (such as booster donors or others in the community)? 4. What would your reaction be if a grandmother fell at Commencement ceremonies because of crumbling concrete?
Instead of criticizing decisions why don't you all become a proactive part of your community, school district, and childs education? " Wow wrote on Sep 18, 2007 9:42 PM: " Hey Maaax...are the figures "dogmo22" mentions right? If so, that don't sound like the couple thousand dollar renovation you tried to make this out to be. It's certainly something the citizens need to be kept correctly informed about. Hey we're talking millions just to get this thing off the ground. Then there's maint and other up keep. Millions Max, not thousands...would you shed some light on this? Again...just the facts please. If you'd rather not, I understand.
" dogmo22 wrote on Sep 18, 2007 3:55 PM: " In case someone is wondering where I got the $450,000.00 commitment from the various groups,
"Freeman said the Football Foundation, the Football Boosters and the Track Boosters are willing to pay half the estimated $900,000 cost for building the new track and field - although they reserve the right to change their offer if the final bids raise that cost."
This sounds like the track and field alone will cost $900,000. So my estimate below is way off. This project will hit over $2,000,000. You have demolition, new stands, new lights, new out buildings and new visitor stands.
" dogmo22 wrote on Sep 18, 2007 3:46 PM: " Some quick research produced the following. A conservative cost just for the field would be $650,000.00. This does not include the track, destruction of the existing stands, building new stands, track, new vistors stands and the new out buildings proposed. I think a conservative estimate for this project would be 1.75 million dollars (real conservative). The boosters and others have pledged $450,000.00. Where does the other money come from? The maintenance of the new field icludes, cleaning, sanitizing, repainting, brushing, treating for static build up, and repairs for normal wear and tear (there may also be weed and moss issues). At the end of the 10 years it would cost $250,000-$300,000 to replace the top surface. This would more than offset the savingsof$300,000. " wow wrote on Sep 18, 2007 3:30 PM: " Finally, I'm sure we all agree today's students attending the JC public schools deserve to have the best accomadations possible. I'm sure we all agree it's up to the parents and the school board to make that happen. That being said and in the spirit of cooperation...let's keep everything above board and make sure that every current student has everything they need to succeed academically, socially and athletically.
Parents be parents, teacher's be teacher's, coaches be coaches. We are here to guide, teach and mentor all students, current and future....not modle coddle, guide teach, and mentor!
Max, we don't agree on the stadium, but can work together to build a brighter future for the JC students? " wow wrote on Sep 18, 2007 3:09 PM: " Maxheadroom, although it is needed, I'm opposed to the renovation at the JCHS stadium happening now, because in my opinion there are more important projects for the school board to deal with. Now, if they have a plan to address the issues which are near and dear to my heart that's cool, if not, that's cool too. I do realize what is going to happen is going to happen and not everyone will be pleased with the outcome.
By the way, if your'e going to categorize me, please call me a realist as I call it like it "T.I. is". I'm not one to go with the group just because.
" wow wrote on Sep 18, 2007 2:55 PM: " Maxheadroom, would you or somebody care to answer the money questions? Please relpy without all the glamour and glitz...just the true facts will do.
Also, can you tell us what's being done to get each JC. student the needed text books? By the way "Max" "my" child currerntly does not have a Science or History book, but I guess that's alright because it will come next year after he's graduated.
Can you shed siome light on what's being done to fix or replace Simonson Jr High? That place is a diaster waiting to happen. Don't the Jr. High ball player's deserve something better than that plywood storage shed? I forgot...they will get that next next year too. " dogmo22 wrote on Sep 18, 2007 1:05 PM: " Thanks for the education Max but you didn't address the questions. 1. What capital projects were the funds in the capital project fund dedicated to prior to the levy passing? This money did not become available until after the levy passed. The capital projects that were going to be completed with the funds in the CPF are now being paid for by the money from the tax levy. I don't have a problem with this, just be upfront about it.2. What is the yearly maintenace cost of the new turf? There will always be cleaning and repair costs. What is the replacement cost after 10 years? These costs will have to be deducted from the $300,000.00 in order to get the truesavings " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 18, 2007 12:17 PM: " All games and practices will be played on the new field, with zero maintenance or labor. That is why many schools are choosing it. You could also play soccer on it as some schools do. But since practices are held on it, it is hard to do " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 18, 2007 12:15 PM: " Ok dogmo let me educate you on your ten questions ?
1st , school districts invest their money , to make more money , just like you and I . Many of their capital projects come from interest earned. Econ 101 . So many people assume everything a public school spends money on is all tax money, not true . JC also has many donors to these big projects , that asked not to be mentioned in
public. As for the new turf , over 10 years comes to the
same expense watering , seeding, painting lines , and
the labor for all this, you actually save. 25-30,000 yearly on this because we have to do this to a practice field too " dogmo22 wrote on Sep 18, 2007 9:59 AM: " In the article also Mr. Kimble states "Over a 10-year period - the advertised life of a new turf field - those savings might be $300,000, Kimble said. He makes it sound like that this will save the district $300,000.00 but I assume at the end of the turf life it will have to be replaced. What is the replacement cost of the turf. Will there be a yearly maintenance requirement for the turf. I'm pretty sure you don't just put it down and it's good to go for 10 years.These costs would need to be deducted from the $300,000.00 to get the true cost savings. Why can't they be honest about the true cost and where the funds are coming from? " dogmo22 wrote on Sep 18, 2007 9:51 AM: " In the article above Mr. Kimble state that "We have the money in the capital projects fund to handle the bleachers and our share of the field,” he added. Where was this money prior to levy? Did the money become available after the levy passed? If this is the case then money dedicated to other capital projects were shifted to the stadium project once the levy passed. So I guess technically they aren't using levy money. I would like to know what this was capital projects fund was dedicated prior to the levy passing. I only started hearing about the massive stadium renovations after the levy passed. If this money was availble prior to the levy,patrons should have been told prior tothevote. " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 18, 2007 2:41 AM: " dogmo , Do you have in fact, that they are using levy money because you are wrong there ? The levy has nothing to do with the stadium ....err that would be illegal , I believe " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 18, 2007 2:38 AM: " I can not agree to do anything with you wow . All yopu want to do is critisize , You are a, the glass is half empty person. So what you witnessed is the way things are going every day there huh ? Just your expereinces only. I see . Sounds like you need to explore your school choices go private if it is so bad . " wow wrote on Sep 17, 2007 4:18 PM: " Maxheadroom please don't take this wrong...but I personally witnessed everything I've spoken about, so that secondary stuff won't fly here. The JC school system has some serious problems that in my opinion should be given higher priority than renovating the JCHS statium.
Hey, just so you know, I'm a let's fix the problem type of person. So rather than get into a debate with you...I feel we both can and should do more to help by working as a team to provide the best educational atmosphere possible for our kids to enjoy. Can we both agree on that? I certainly hope so.
" seriously wrote on Sep 17, 2007 3:50 PM: " Really people...I went to Jeff City public schools all the way from K-12. I graduated just fine, I went to college and graduated from there just fine, and I know I'm not the only one. People are sure quick to blame someone for their kids not doing good in school. The boosters are paying for a large chunk of the project...so it's not all tax dollars. And there are A TON of activities at JCHS for students to get involved in. So to say that if they don't play football, they aren't as important is ridiculous. The funny thing is, I bet a lot of the people complaining are the same ones who are sitting in the stands on Fri. night! " dogmo22 wrote on Sep 17, 2007 2:09 PM: " The so called "second stringers" deserve the best education possible. Maybe if there were a little more concern about the "second strinters" JC would not be losing so many kids to drop out. I do have an axe to grind. All kids deserve the best not just the athletes. I know alot of districts put athletics above everything else but it doesn't make it right. My other point at least (however misplaced their priorities were) Blair Oaks told the patrons of their district what the increase in taxes would be used for and didn't do it in a back door fashion. I don't remember massive stadium improvements in all the PR done prior to the bond issue vote. " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 17, 2007 1:21 PM: " Hey wow , have you ever heard of primary source versus secondary source of information ? You are a secondary source , and are using your experiences only
(with may be a few others stories ). I'm a primary source and yes I will categorically deny and refute your synopsis of this situation , because you are wrong . Enough said, " wow wrote on Sep 17, 2007 12:25 PM: " Maxheadroom, if what you say is true about the Columbia School situation, then they're school board may be as misfocused as the JC board. Further since I don't live in Columbia, all I can do is voice my opinion on that, but I do live in JC and can do more to raise attention to what I think is wrong here.
That being said, I do not have an axe to grind with anyone. I've done nothing more than write about what I've seen and know to be factual. I'm not one to sit silent, especially on a subject like this. You may not like what I've written, but you cannot honestly say it isn't true. " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 17, 2007 11:09 AM: " Let me add more , the booster clubs are paying for half of the cost , in Columbia the schools footed the whole bill
Ps athletes act avg 7 points higher than avg student and a much higher gpa , in every school . Research it. " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 17, 2007 11:07 AM: " Blair Oaks voted for a stadium when they needed a middle school , then they voted for the middle school on a seperate levy for middle school. Columbia calls off school for heat because they have buildings that are not air conditioned and they have trailers at their middle
schools overflowing , they too built new stadiums. Don't make it sound like JC is the only school that is building a new stadium over other needs they currently have . And yes every school district has text book issues and every second stringer at every school feels second class . Wake up posters , you have an ax to grind with the school on many issues like many citizens do in
all districts " wow wrote on Sep 16, 2007 6:01 PM: " In closing, new seats would make the JC HS stadium much more comfortable and the new track would accomodate more track and field competition.. but what's the first goal of the JC school system? If it's to make sure our kids get the best education possible, perhaps the board member's need to focus on getting our local teachers squared away with support and educational materials so that they can in turn help those most in need...the students!
Perhaps the school board should do something to fix all the JC public Schools and not just the JC HS....or is that old " these things are reserved for the older kids" statement true? I certainly hope not!
I'll calm down for now. " wow wrote on Sep 16, 2007 5:44 PM: " I have no problem supporting the school system which my child attends, I'd just like knowing which projects my tax dollars, donations and time are going towards. I'd feel better knowing that my efforts helped my child and "every" other child in the school district, not just the older HS students.
So until the JC School Board tells me why our children are forced into delapadated buildings such Simonson or does something to make sure each student has the correct number of the best text books and ample access to computers and the web-based activities, I say no to the renovation. If we're truly concerned about educating the JC youth, it has to be books before athletics! " wow wrote on Sep 16, 2007 2:27 PM: " I recently learned that some of last yeasrs players for one JC MIddle School were deemed ineligible to play this year due to their poor grades. Ok good right...wrong...therse kids don't have poor grades, they have F's. Is it true a JC student can participate in school athletics if they only have one or two F's?.
I know it's the parents who must make the final decsion, but the school system has to play a part as well. If JC allows F students to participate in school athletics, then "there will be a lot of children left behind and we're in deep trouble!
" wow wrote on Sep 16, 2007 2:13 PM: " Academics will always come first, but just for the record, students who participate in atheletics at elementary and Jr High schools don't even have the facilities to accomodate athletic activities. Ask anyone who has coached a youth team about the "practice/game facilities are reserved for the older students and it's always been that way" comments they've gotten when trying to get a place to practice/play. Why don't the 6th & 7th graders at TJMS or LC have regular gym lockers to store their clothing? How come none of the public schools have bleacher's for the teams to sit on or cold weather gear for the kids to wear? But ya, want seats for the HS? " wow wrote on Sep 16, 2007 1:56 PM: " Stadium seats for the JC High School, in my opinion it's certainly needed, but I cannot support this recent decision to finance such a renovation and this is why!
Most importantly, my son and all the other students attending the JC public schools currrently don't have the basic things they need and are entitled to in order to receive the best education. Next, my son and the other students are soliciting money via "Fund Raiser's" to raise money to purchase class room items, such as computers, text books, etc, etc....at least that's what they are being told. So until we have enough school supplies, I want my tax dollars focused there instead of stadium seats.
" pdrxtec wrote on Sep 14, 2007 3:37 PM: " My first two kids went to Russellville. When we came to JC they were ahead of the students at JC. They had to sit bored until the JC student caught up to them. My third child was attending JC from K-4 grade and learned very little. We finally pulled him out and he is home schooled now. JC has a serious problem with their strong focus on sports, especially football. There has always been a shortage of text books, and technology. Technology is important for our childrens futures. Get your head out of your butts and start focusing on academics...that's what they go to school for. Sports are extra curricular activities. Academics should come first. " Badger 01 wrote on Sep 14, 2007 3:34 PM: " Max- let's try to stay on topic, and not assail people personally. Also- my kids aren't old enough to attend school as yet. However, I'm a JCPS grad, and can tell you first hand that if you aren't a first or second stringer- you are second class.. unless that is of course you suppor the boosters with your bank book. It's too bad that our community is missing the boat here- So what our stadim is in the worst shape of all five or six major high schools? What's more important Max-getting a brand new stadium, or your'kids' education? " online_editor wrote on Sep 14, 2007 1:54 PM: " A followup article on this topic has been published. See Preliminary stadium renovation ideas considered.
" dogmo22 wrote on Sep 14, 2007 1:29 PM: " There is a big difference in what Blair Oaks did and what is being done here. They actually had a vote on a tax to specifically pay for their sports facility. It was not a back door use of a tax increase voted and approved by JC. Mr. Kinder may say it is a different pool of money but I wonder if this new pool of money became availble because of the new tax. Also where was this money before the tax. It could have been used to fix schools. In regards to Columbia schools, they have two high schools with a third on the way. JC is still craming students into one building. " carolyn wrote on Sep 14, 2007 12:59 PM: " When my son was in the fifth grade at Lawson Elementary School he was not issued a Social Studies book. He was supposed to go to the Social Studies classroom every day after school and check one out then return it the next morning before school. Since he was a bus kid this was nearly impossible. So my son also went without a textbook. He did however have the best in football safety gear. That was in 1995. I guess it hasn't changed much. Shouldn't a parent be upset when their child doesn't receive a textbook? It is frustrating to a parent (and the child) when their child is bringing home homework geared to a specific book and they have no book. " maxheadroom wrote on Sep 14, 2007 9:32 AM: " Poor Badger and Pine073. Lets' use any issue we can use to degrade the school system because you are unhappy with your child' situation . You two would find fault with any school district your kids went to. The bottom line is, if you went to the 50 largest schools in the state (and we are in the top 5) you would find that our stadium is in the worst condition of them all . Two high schools use this facilty ( Helias and JC ). I do not see you criticizing Blair Oaks, Columbia Hickman , or Rock Bridge who have done the same thing . JC spent 1 per cent of it's budget on athletics because of booster clubs ..nuff said " Pine073 wrote on Sep 13, 2007 3:18 PM: " I agree with Badger 00 - My family moved to JC school district last year and my son went to school here(and failed last year). We were told at the beginning of the year that textbooks had been ordered, but they only got enough for the teachers. My son went the whole year with NO textbook - they never came in. I could not help him with homework at all. It was very frustrating as a parent and it does seem that education is put on back burner in JC when it comes to football or any sports for that matter. " Badger 00 wrote on Sep 13, 2007 12:20 PM: " Yes yes- all hail JC football!! Let's see- there are schools that need repairs, classrooms that need better teacher/student ratios, and oh yes, books! Educational materials! Classroom technology! Gee- it sure is nice to see our school district allocating revenue (partially in the form of property taxes that you and I pay each year) in such a student outcome-oriented fashion. Education first, er second.. folks - that's what our district's all about. " |
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ndnlvngcherokee wrote on Oct 13, 2007 5:28 PM: