A recent letter in The Herald raised the concern that the proposed Marysville School District bond issue is excessive and that the new administration is following the course of the prior leadership of the district. I would vehemently beg to differ with both assumptions of those who raise these issues.

Without question, the district has shown huge growth over the last 15 years – which is the last time we passed a school bond issue. As a result, our current bond issue debt is the lowest of any district in Snohomish County. Had we kept pace with our student population growth, the district would not have to be seeking such a large bond issue at this time.

As a senior citizen living on a fixed income, I don’t like to see my taxes raised. On the other hand, as a citizen of this fine community, I believe there is an obligation to give our students the best education possible – and this includes providing adequate infrastructure. The bond issue is really a great investment in the future of all children who attend Marysville schools. I don’t find the amount of the issue excessive and I am in full support of the proposal.

As far as comparing the current administration with prior ones, there is no comparison. Having lived here for more than 20 years, I believe Dr. Nyland is the best superintendent we have had since the early 1980s. I have found Dr. Nyland and his staff to be open and willing to discuss any education issue with anyone at any time. Dr. Nyland has made many appearances before the public and, in my opinion, it’s too bad he hasn’t been here longer. I believe he is doing a very fine job for this community and hope we can keep him here for many more years.

Also, I believe our five board members are working well together and this benefits our children and the entire community.

DONALD R. WLAZLAK

Marysville