Letter: Strong public schools build strong communities!

Ridgefield resident Michele Wollert offers her support for the Ridgefield School District bond proposals in the April 23 special election

Editor’s note: Opinions expressed in this letter to the editor are those of the author alone and do not reflect the editorial position of ClarkCountyToday.com

In about one week, Ridgefield voters will begin receiving ballots in their mailboxes for the April 23rd special school bond election. Here’s what’s at stake:

Proposition 10 would authorize the school district to complete the construction of a new elementary school; construct an addition to Ridgefield High School with new general and vocational education classrooms; and repair roofing and replace rooftop mechanical systems at Ridgefield High School and district elementary schools.

Proposition 11 would authorize the district to construct a new intermediate/ middle school campus and new wrestling and locker room additions and upgrades to Ridgefield High School; resurface the track and field and upgrade band room acoustics at Ridgefield High School; and update elementary school playgrounds.

Student enrollment at Ridgefield schools has increased by 47 percent since the last school bond was passed in 2017. Classroom space is severely limited and children are now learning in 26 portables, as well as in the hallways and athletic rooms. Local funding of bond measures like these is necessary because, unfortunately, the Washington State Legislature does not subsidize the construction or renovation of our children’s schools.

I no longer have children who attend public schools, but I love living in Ridgefield and understand that there’s much at stake in this election: the safety of our children and teachers, the vibrancy of our beautiful neighborhoods, the health of our local economy, and the desirability of our community to both residents and businesses who call it home.

Ridgefield neighbors have a proud history of generously supporting each other in times of need. Now is the time to also take care of our public school children, our future, as a wise investment in one of Washington State’s fastest growing cities.

Please vote yes on Propositions 10 and 11!

Michele Wollert
Ridgefield