SCHOOLS: Vote for bond issue

There is a school bond election coming in August that needs our unanimous support. Yes, even from those of you who never vote yes for a bond.

Idaho, specifically Coeur d’Alene School District, is the lowest in spending per student in the entire nation. Our share of income going to education in Idaho has dropped 23 percent in 13 years. So, as conservative as we may be here, we have cut this line item down to the bare bone.

School buildings are our responsibility to the next generation, not an option. The state does not pay for our school buildings or upgrades; it is solely upon our community to make this investment. The generation before us made sure we had adequate buildings and instructors. As Idahoans and as Americans, we take care of our own, right? At least we should.

We have asbestos, glaring life-threatening safety issues, classrooms with zero ventilation that could lead to lifetime illnesses, and the list goes on.

Those who say there’s no research showing spending equals grades must admit that under-spending surely can affect learning. Just remember when voting (or more so, not voting) these kids will someday be the ones who will be taking care of you and paying their taxes for your care and well-being. Their income and amount of taxes paid will have a lot to do with the education they received.

Vote yes on the bond and build a better community now and for future generations to come.

ADAM GRAVES

Coeur d’Alene