The June 20 vote on the proposed school bond is a chance for us to take a direct involvement in the education of this community's children. The recent budget vote only managed 1,700 votes to be cast. This is a terrible statement by the community. The five minutes it takes to cast a vote on the future of education is less time than it takes to have your morning cup of coffee. Most of us wouldn't think of taking on our day without that coffee so why let our children take on an education wihout our support.

I am a father of three children who attend the Jackson Avenue School. Many in the community feel parents of school-age children will all vote yes for a bond. Last year, I voted against the proposed bond because of what I saw as a lack of a clear, long-term plan that would best utilize the money.

This year, however, I have attended numerous budget and bond meetings and asked some difficult questions to the board. I can only say that they have done their homework and, I feel, put forth an excellent plan. Built into the plan is a steady reduction in cost to the taxpayers over the term of the bond. The improvements to the schools, space issues and technology are all addressed. Most importantly, some major repairs such as roofs and boilers are addressed. These are going to be replaced soon, regardless of a bond passing. But, under a bond, the cost will be spread out over 30 years and not paid for in a lump sum. Should the bond fail, these repairs will be done and paid for in a future budget. We will not have the option of voting down the budget to avoid these repairs. They will be done, even under an austerity budget.

The Willis Avenue property represents 45 percent of the proposal. Thankfully, this would pay for the demolition of the existing building and a new building being erected on the site. Had this bond proposed the renovation of the existing building, I would not be able to vote yes. Willis will have all our pre-K and kindergarten classes as well as administration offices. There will be sufficient room for all day kindergarten, which the state will likely mandate in the near future. Should all-day kindergarten become a reality, our already overcrowded schools would burst at the seams.

We cannot neglect the needs of this school district any longer. Last year's bond proposal failed, as it should have. It was, for all intents and purposes, a blank check. Not so this year. The board has made numerous cuts to last year's proposal and is asking for a minimal amount in return for vast improvements for this community's children. Their plan is clear cut and presented in black and white (not video). I applaud their hard work and support their bond. I hope the community will look beyond the dollars and see the sense.

Again, I ask you to vote on June 20. Vote yes or no, but vote. Tell your neighbors and friends to vote. Show the children we care about their education and their future.

Artie Barnett