To the editor:
When a bond referendum was attempted in 2016, I was vocal in my support of changing our facilities. As we look to a bond referendum vote on April 3, I can again say that I am an enthusiastic supporter of the proposal.
However, I think it is important to clarify that this isn’t just a third try of the same thing. Instead, we are being given the chance to vote for an amazing opportunity through a partnership with Iowa Central Community College; we’re not just voting for a new building.
This is an opportunity for students of all interests and abilities. Currently, students have options to take vocational or dual-enrollment courses, but often times students leave high school wondering if the career they think they’re interested is truly right for them – simply because they haven’t had hands on exposure to that field.
The proposed Career Academy would allow students to explore many different avenues for their future. Rather than wondering how they could apply their interests in agriculture or computers to a future career, students can explore these careers in meaningful ways. Whether they are a student who wants to obtain an associate’s degree or vocational training, or a student who anticipates attending a four year university, this helps students leave our school system better prepared to seek a future direction, whether that direction leads them back to Greene County or somewhere else.
This is also an opportunity for the economic development of Greene County. We have strong manufacturing companies, and this new school and Career Academy helps to ensure that we are providing a work force to keep those companies here for years to come. Working closely with these businesses allows us to ensure that our students are equipped with the employability skills necessary for the 21st century, skills that will help Greene County maintain its excellent businesses and attract even more economic development.
Finally, this is an opportunity for all residents of our county. I’ve called Greene County home for five years now, and countless times, I’ve heard complaints that other communities are growing while we are stuck without opportunities. Here is our chance. It’s our chance as a county and school district to stop complaining and take the initiative to make something amazing happen. Vote YES with me on April 3rd. It’s important for our kids, for our future, and it’s important for Greene County.
Sincerely,
Wendy Vander Linden, Jefferson
