Letter to the Editor 10-22-21

Dear USD 333 constituents,
Having served for nearly 18 months on the Community Vision Planning Committee, I've learned a lot about the goals identified by our school board, our administrators and our wonderful educators in USD 333 as they relate to the children they serve in our community. I've witnessed firsthand the emphasis on preparing our children for the jobs of today and have come to understand that education is conveyed differently today than it was when I went to school in the building they hope to renovate and improve. Additionally, I have observed the professional approach taken by the architect and construction manager engaged by the district as they have listened to community feedback and shared their expertise. The result of this collective effort is a project that better meets the educational needs of our children today and in the future while being mindful of the cost to the taxpayers who support this district and community. This plan puts children first and will provide the resources and facilities our educators require to prepare students for a brighter future.
Why Now?
We recently opened the time capsule from 1971. It was eye-opening to see that 50 years ago our district was facing the same school facility problems that we are today. Don Musick, the 1971 Concordia High School principal, said “I certainly hope this problem doesn't exist for you now” when referring to the high school facility. For the last 50 years we have furloughed the issues and challenges at the high school while other districts made necessary and steady improvements to meet educational needs. Now is the time to re-invest in our community. If we do not pass this project on November 2 the issues and challenges will not go away. This cost of construction and the cost of financing such a project will increase as well. Future projects may not be supported by sales tax, allowing people from outside our area who purchase products on their way through, to help ease the taxpayer burden. Interest rates are currently at all-time lows and our district must take advantage of them before inflation and interest rate hikes make keeping our doors open even more painful.
As a taxpayer and community member, I recognize the importance of great schools and great healthcare to sustain small communities in Kansas. I am so proud that community members and leaders have taken steps to provide for a wonderful future in Concordia and the surrounding area. Let's take another important step together. While my children will have moved on before this project comes to fruition, I know they will reflect proudly on it when they return home to visit. This effort has led us to the right project at the right time for our community, our educators and most importantly, our kids. I hope that you'll join me on November 2 by voting yes on the USD 333 project.
Ben Retter