Like many others, we have retired to Lopez Island and live here not only for its beauty, but, especially, for the sense of community we find here.
The huge amount of bond money proposed for our school is incorrectly focused on structure and facilities. Sure, I agree we need safety, correct, reliable plumbing and heating, excellent kitchen facilities, an enclosed play area for elementary students, and comfortable rooms for students to concentrate. Water catchment and physical fitness are important.
We live in a society in which medical bills can swiftly become an overwhelming and unfair burden, but on such occasions we can also remind ourselves of the blessings of community, and derive renewing strength from community.
Having served as a San Juan County Commissioner and as a County Council Member, I have a deep appreciation for the importance of making sure we have an effective County Council – one that can get things done.
I have known Jamie Stephens for nearly 20 years now and I continue to appreciate, among other things, his significant and consistent dedication to the community over that period of time. In addition to serving as the chairman of the county council, Jamie has served on and worked with innumerable local boards.
Voting “No” is NOT about denying the kids an education. It is about fiscal responsibility. The state has awarded the Lopez school district a $738,000 Energy Conservation grant and $400,000 grant for renovations to the high school.
My wife and I are architects and the majority of our clients are government entities. We know how to effectively use public funds. The School Board has followed a planning path that includes hiring an architectural firm with plenty of school planning experience.
I graduated from Lopez High School in 2012. Thanks to an outstanding faculty and the small size, this school provides a very supportive environment for students where they are encouraged to pursue their own interests or inspirations.
As a teacher for thirty-three years, I worked in old deteriorating schools in Seattle (now rebuilt.) Now, I suffer chronic lung disease due to extensive mold and asbestos exposure in those schools.
As a long-time (25 year) taxpayer on Lopez, and parent of two children who went through the Lopez school system, I am writing in support of the proposed school bond.
I have read many of the letters and talked with former students and many parents since my return. I have generally listened (as is my nature) to many different opinions and concerns regarding the school and the bond measure.
From us at the LIFRC, we would like to thank everyone involved in making this year’s Men’s Lunch at the school a huge success! A special thanks goes out to the Lopez School kitchen staff, Principal Lisa Shelby, and all of the wonderful volunteers and workers who helped with the lunch.
Read the fine print in the sixteen pages of details at www.lopezislandschool.org, “proposed school wide renovations.”
