Vote yes for Everett Schools bond for kids, community

I am writing to support Everett School Disrtict’s capital improvement/construction bond. My current experience as as a realtor, and my long-time experience as a teacher and principal qualify me to offer an informed opinion on passage of this important measure.

First, as a kindergarten teacher in a district where classroom space was insufficient, I taught classes of 31 and 33 youngsters. In this circumstance, it was exceedingly difficult to give each student the individual time and attention I would want. This concern is magnified when there is inadequate space across a school. As a principal, when classroom space was critically short, our support teachers were actually forced to teach in projector storage rooms when privacy and distraction-free environments were necessary for their students.

Here in Mill Creek and in nearby neighborhoods, I see schools continue to add portable classrooms even though most families prefer their children be housed in the “main” building with proximity to their peers and vital school services.

Finally, in my current profession as a realtor, I am very aware that “Great schools make great communities!” Clients almost always ask me, “How is support for schools in this area?” It has been a pleasure to answer in the affirmative to date. Strong, well-supported schools are a powerful indicator of responsible, thriving communities. In addition, great schools are consistently related to higher property values and a positive resale market.

Re-submitting a necessary bond measure is hugely expensive. Maybe this is where I should have begun.

Jeanne Smart

Mill Creek

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