Dear Editor:
I have lived in Jefferson City for three decades and follow how the JCPS district issues impact our community. Reading about Propositions J and C, I am deeply concerned about the lack of insight and understanding the JCPS board and district administrators have about why the current bond/levy issues may fail. It has been well documented since the last bond failed the voters are very worried about how the JCPS district uses our tax dollars.
Here is a list of some of the problems voters said were reasons the latest bond issue failed: poor teacher morale. Teachers not supported in student discipline by their principal. A poorly rolled out curriculum change with the academy high school model noted by parents, students and teachers. Poor administrative leadership allowing hostile work environments to continue so lawsuits are common. Our tax dollars used to pay large settlements in lawsuits awarded by the court and others settled out of court in amounts that were not disclosed. After these lawsuits were settled, a large raise was given to the district staff attorney who did not participate in the defense of the district in these cases. Instead, the JCPS district hired outside legal services, taking money that could have been used for operating needs. The new superintendent hired two years ago made some of these decisions. Today, I hear from parents and teachers many of the same problems remain. Because of these school problems, I hear families refusing to move to Jefferson City for good jobs. Do we JC citizens want our school district to keep people from moving to our city because of our poor school system?
I agree JC needs two high schools. I support passing a bond now so it is built in the next few years. But my concern is passing the operating levy now in which a majority is earmarked for expenses related to the second high school not yet built. This is putting the cart before the horse. If the bond for the high school fails and the operating levy passes, I don't trust the district to use this money wisely with its current problems. I want to encourage voters to look closely at school board candidates and choose three that recognize these past issues are still occurring and are committed to helping the district run with integrity. This will build community trust and support for future growth.
Issue-oriented letters to [email protected] are welcome. All letters should be limited to 400 words in length; longer letters may be edited to conform to the specified length. The author's name must appear with the letter, and the name, address and phone number provided for verification. Letters that cannot be verified by telephone will not be published.